Watch Faraway, So Close!

Faraway, So Close! is a 1993 German fantasy film, directed by Wim Wenders, which follows the story of angels who are watching over humanity’s fate. The movie presents itself as a sequel to the critically acclaimed, "Wings of Desire" in which the two angels, Damiel (Bruno Ganz) and Cassiel (Otto Sander) had left their heavenly kingdom to experience earthly life in Berlin. Faraway, So Close! continues this narrative by focusing on the life of the angels after they choose to become human.

The plot of the film unfolds when Cassiel, after dedicating himself to a life among humans, decides to open up his own pizza parlour in Berlin. Meanwhile, Damiel and his wife Marion (Solveig Dommartin) are raising their daughter, while Damiel is trying to deal with his newfound human sexuality. However, the city of Berlin is soon infiltrated by nefarious and corrupt forces that threaten to destabilize its very existence. The angels are forced to intervene when their beloved Berlin is under threat.

As the plot unfolds, the angels become more involved in the lives of the humans they are watching over. Cassiel befriends an ex-stasi officer who is trying to make amends for his past. Damiel, on the other hand, falls in love with an acrobat, Marion, who is struggling to keep her circus afloat. As the two angels continue to inhabit human forms, they become more emotionally involved in the lives of people who they watch over.

The film is a mesmerizing portrayal of the world from the perspective of the angels. It takes the viewer on a theological journey that is both thought-provoking and introspective. In Faraway, So Close! Wenders has created a unique world of his own, where angels can drink coffee, experience pleasure, pain, and even death. The narrative of the movie is profound and has inspired numerous philosophical debates and discussions.

The performances in the movie are outstanding. Bruno Ganz delivers a standout performance as the angel, Damiel. His portrayal of a celestial being trying to find his way in the world of humans is truly mesmerizing; it brings a sense of warmth, wonder, and compassion to the character. Otto Sander, who plays Cassiel, brings a sense of depth to his portrayal, giving insight into how the angels view humanity.

Peter Falk is another standout in the movie. He plays himself, in a surreal manner. In the movie, he tracks down Damiel and Cassiel, suspecting they are Guardian Angels. His role is important, as he provides a point of reference for the humans to understand what it means to be an angel.

The cinematography in Faraway, So Close! is simply breathtaking. Wenders takes the viewer on a tour of Berlin, from the overcrowded cafes to open skies. His use of dark and light shots create an atmosphere that is both enchanting and supernatural. The soundtrack of the movie is also worthy of mention - with a score composed by Laurent Petitgand, it invokes a sense of mystery, wonder, and awe.

In conclusion, Faraway, So Close! is a movie that is both profound and thought-provoking. It takes the viewer on an incredible journey into the lives of celestial beings who are trying to understand humanity. The movie is a testament to the fact that Wenders is a visionary who is capable of weaving an intricate narrative that is both engaging and profound. It is not a movie that can be easily forgotten, as it leaves a lasting impression on the viewer's mind. For those who are seeking a movie that is intellectually stimulating and visually engaging, Faraway, So Close! is definitely worth watching.