A little ol’ independent film out of Canada, this movie really broke the mold when it comes to the standard theme of lesbian movies. And by standard theme I mean – girl likes girl, girl kisses girl, both girls get confused and beat themselves up, and finally one girl ends up committing suicide (or the other option – goes back to men).
When Night is Falling captures a different side of lesbian relationships – a softer and more sensual side. Granted it does showcase the usual complications and issues that come along with defying societal norms of sexuality – but it doesn’t focus on the negativity that can surround it.
The movie begins as you get a glimpse into the life of Camille, a subtly beautiful Professor of mythology at a Christian college. We enter at a time when Camille is going through a sort of transformative period in her life – She is up for the chaplaincy at her college (along with her fellow professor and fiancé of three years Martin), she is getting pressure from her superiors at the college to marry Martin – i.e. stop living in sin, and worst of all her beloved dog has just died unexpectedly. Camille can’t help but feel unfulfilled and finds herself spiraling down a hole of uncertainty in her life.
At just the right moment, of course, Camille runs into Petra – an exotically beautifully, free-spirited, bohemian circus performer – while doing laundry at the local laundry mat. They are immediately drawn to one another as if they had been long-time friends, and Petra consoles Camille after she tells her the story of losing her dog. Nothing happens right away, but after they part a smitten Petra pursues Camille quite insistently – showing up at her door the next day to Camille’s surprise. Despite Camille’s hesitancy, she ultimately willingly gives into Petra and the two begin a torrid love affair – one that awakens Camille’s spirit but also makes her question her life’s destiny.
If I can tell you nothing more about this movie, I will leave you with this. It is beautifully and artistically directed. The two women share amazing chemistry that feels real – and not forced like many gratuitous lesbian relationships on American TV. There are several, tastefully done yet graphic sex scenes, and lots of nudity. I mean the movie begins with two women swimming naked underwater! Not to be assuming, but let’s get real – we lesbians love to see two women wrapped up in the throes of love – I mean why else was the L Word so successful?! :) And last but not least – well I won’t spoil it for you, but let’s just say it doesn’t end in suicide!
I give this movie two thumbs! Check it out, throw out some comments here and let us know what you think…