Lesley Manville and Ciarán Hinds are so convincing as a married couple in “Midwinter Break” that you’ll swear they left the set each day holding hands.
The late-middle-aged couple in the story isn’t as cozy as we initially think. Director Polly Findlay’s film is a gentle look at a decades-old marriage in crisis, and the reasons why are both subtle and deeply ingrained.
The film demands patience, but the joy of watching two stellar performers give their all is more than enough of a reward.
Stella and Gerry (Manville, Hinds) look like a perfectly contented couple plotting a trip to Amsterdam. They function like a well-oiled machine, aware of each other’s minor faults and foibles, but understanding it’s part of their imperfect love story.
Awww.
The trip starts well, but a trauma from Stella’s past resurfaces. No details here, but the event is tied to a spiritual promise that went unfulfilled all these years later. The trip, which started with such promise, pushes the couple to the breaking point.
Findlay spoon feeds us flashbacks to that earlier event in Stella’s life. What seems like Character Foundation 101 proves far more consequential, even life changing. That incident looms larger as the story progresses, shading Stella’s decisions and the chasm between the two.
It isn’t the only surprise in store for us. Gerry has his own baggage he lugs around the streets of Amsterdam, one camouflaged by his gregarious spirit.
Can this marriage be saved? Should it?
No one would dub “Midwinter Break” a faith-based film, at least at first blush. Religion still plays a powerful role in the story, peeking out in ways that many can understand. It could save this older couple or convince them they’re better off seeking someone new.
The screenplay treats faith with respect and reverence, adding to a sense of urgency to a story that takes all the time necessary to draw out the conflict.
That’s a kind way of saying “Midwinter Break” will test modern audiences. The revelations come at us slowly, allowing the stars to dig into their roles and the marriage in question.
Subtle. Gentle. And, ultimately, engaging.
None of this works unless the stars capture marriage in all its unflattering shades. What these screen veterans do is allow us to buy into their connection. Sure, it lacks the passion of youth, but not the endurance of time, which can be far more expressive.
Some scenes, which seem unnecessary at first blush, take on a larger meaning in the third act. Your patience will be rewarded, and heartstrings will be tugged in unexpected ways.
The cinematography is never flashy, but it’s lush enough to convey both the Amsterdam scenery and the beauty of everyday life. This love story is complicated, layered, and longtime couples will see those minor tells and bond with the material.
It’s unavoidable.
Others will relish the poignancy of marriage and the joy of watching two stars performing at the peak of their powers.
HiT or Miss: “Midwinter Break” is quiet and pensive, a marital X-ray with a powerful dose of faith.
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