Both Sides of the Blade

A middle-aged love triangle sounds like the epitome of your classic French romance film. A woman has an affair and leaves her partner for said lover. Ten years later, the ex is back, and the tables have turned – reversing the roles of the decade-old betrayal. It sounds like a melodramatic, exotic soap opera. But put in the hands of a skilled director, writer and the crème de la crème of French actors – and you have Both Sides of the Blade. 

Three of France’s most acclaimed actors have come together with director Claire Denis, to bring to life a story equally as compelling as it is farcical. Sara (Juliette Binoche) and Jean (Vincent Lindon) are a seductive and emotionally charged couple, whose seemingly wonderful relationship is thrown into chaos when Jean is offered a job by François (Grégoire Colin), the man Sara left for him. Unconvincingly promising each other the relationship will remain platonic on all sides, turmoil erupts when, of course, the exact opposite occurs. The film’s opening scene is a balancing act of contradictions, with Sara and Jean lovingly frolicking and embracing in the ocean while a slow, melancholic score hovers over them – warning the audience that doom is looming. The fantasy transitions back to reality as they arrive back at their apartment and life is suddenly in the way again. Moments later, a simple and distant match of eye-hockey with François on the street sets in motion a chain of events that disrupts the seemingly peaceful union that is Sara and Jean. 

On paper, it could sound laughable. And while some decisions made by the characters, specifically Sara, are almost theatrical – all three actors manage to make these characters captivating and three-dimensional. They expose the vulnerabilities of the human condition, make love and human connection fascinating and put a spotlight on just where the mind can take us when lust overrules all else. Each character is troubled and plagued by their demons and desires. Sara, torn between two loves, has little to no self-control and is driven by her past with no focus on the future. Jean, a former athlete with a served prison conviction, is haunted by his past discretions and his constant “I’m fine’s” is frustratingly indicative that he is not. The confrontation scenes between all three are tense and relentless, and their dialogue is as sharp and cutting as the title suggests. 

As discussed in previous reviews, a solid screenplay is crucial in keeping a film afloat. It can make even the most questionable plots sustainable. Both Sides of the Blade is a perfect example of a predictable plot being boosted by fantastic direction, confronting and realistic writing and strong performances across the board. Binoche, Lindon and Colin make a superb and fractured team and make this film a highly recommended pick for 2022.

Both Sides of the Blade
In cinemas Thursday 1 September 2022
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