Kasvoista kasvoihin

I'm assuming that if you've stumbled across this review, you have some interest in "Intimate Lighting", to which I might also add you probably know something or other about the Czech New Wave. This film is squarely in the Czech New Wave, but I must say I detest the use of the phrase "New Wave" (those ruinous French again).

Anyway, if I assume these things (which I'm certainly not allowed to), I submit that this film is a Must-See.

This is a film of remarkable simplicity. The camera is detached from any character's point of view and approaches the characters objectively, no judgment, which gives the film a bit of silliness (in an entirely humane way). Its simplicity and silliness are almost profound in their subtle implications of life.

And the ending -- oh, the ending! -- is what will likely vault the film high in a viewer's memory. The film is short (I love short films), so the ending springs on you almost unexpectedly. I won't ruin it, of course, but the ending is a masterpiece of subtlety (as a certain idol of mine might call it, a "moment") that lays bare (to the astute viewer) the simplicity and absurdity of humanity and our habits.

Key word: simplicity. I'm sure you're tired of my using it, but this is what gives "Intimate Lighting" (and some other CNW films) its power. And in its spirit, I've kept this review as simple as possible and hope that those of you reading this who express interest in seeing this film see it as soon as you can. If you have seen it, share your thoughts and encourage others to watch it. It is a must-see.