In the mood for love

Have not written in this blog for long. That does not mean that one has not seen any good film. It means that other activities have been overwhelming. But once in a while, there is a film that compels one to drop everything else and write about it. I recently saw such a film. It is called In The Mood For Love. ​Love stories have been told from time immemorial. In all languages, in all cultures and many times. ​ Who knew that a love story could again be told so well? It is a visual treat. I would love to mention two scenes. In her loneliness, Mrs. Chan used to buy noodles for dinner from a street corner shop. She was on her way to the shop when Mr. Chow was on his way back from office. Mr. Chow passes her. They exchange glances as new acquaintances look at each other. Mrs. Chan proceeds to the shop and Mr. Chow proceeds to home. Rain starts. Chow stands beneath a shade. Somewhat hassled, somewhat lonely, gives a stressed look at the rain. Mrs. Chan, somewhat hassled, somewhat lonely, waits for the noodle to be prepared at the shop. Chow smokes a cigarette. Mrs. Chan tries to dry herself against the falling rain. This film has taken pains to establish their loneliness. Nothing brings out their loneliness more than this scene. It ends in a jump cut to the next scene showing them entering their building together after the rain stopped. The second scene is when Mrs. Chan goes back to meet her old landlady. She remembers Mr. Chow who lived next door. Now, he is in a far land. Tears well up in her eyes. She controls herself. The close up of a few seconds makes an unforgettable scene. ​This film would not have been this film without Tony Leung. He is a sensitive actor. Acts with his eyes. It is truly a pleasure to see him. ​