An Impossible Love

The French are often known for pushing the boundaries of their films, in both artistic style and narrative. Directors such as Gaspar Noé have continued to throw their creations into the circle of avant-garde, showcasing dark tones and hyper-sexuality that freeze viewers in their seats. In arrives Catherine Corsini’s An Impossible Love, a poignant film on love, loss and the propriety of life itself.

The name is a misnomer. Although its overall appearance seems based around the idea of love and tragedy, its writing could not be any further from a standard Romeo and Juliet plot. We begin with Rachel (Virginie Efira), a shy but beautiful 27-year-old woman who is thrust into a relationship with the charming Philippe (Niels Schneider). Despite the latter’s lack of commitment to their relationship, the two – during their throes of passion – accidentally conceive a child together, whom Rachel names Chantel, and raises as a single mum. The movie then continues through the lives of the trio, as Philippe transitions in and out of our protagonist’s life and the troubles she faces on her own.

Let’s get one thing straight: this is not a love story and Philippe is not a good person. We are so easily tricked during the first 30 minutes to think of him as a wonderfully smart and handsome lover. As the film traverses down its path, we are shown otherwise. However, despite its dark tonality and tender plots, this is a beautifully written and handsomely done film.

Viewers are provided with a full viewing experience, as this isn’t just a film based on a simple story or cheap plot twist, it is a film focused on detail and subtlety. The turmoils and trepidations are all wonderfully portrayed, a true testament to the actors’ ability for emotionally charged scenes and circumstances. I also loved watching the graduation in time, beginning with grainy footage from the 1950’s before slowly transitioning into more moderate times, and sharper cinematography.

The final few moments are where An Impossible Love reaches its climax. Through its 135-minute run there seems to be a paced build-up to something big and dangerous. As previously mentioned, detail and subtlety are major stylistic choices in the direction of storytelling, and as we reach the peak, we discover that all the small threads are neatly tied together at its conclusion.

Corsini’s An Impossible Love is an exceptional telling of life lost to love and its hardest mountains. While some scenes won’t be for all viewers – but since when did other films cater for absolutely everybody? – its mixture of cinematography, writing and artistic direction all provide viewers with the best possible experience. If you do get a chance, this heartbreaking film is one that will definitely twist your stomach and clench your chest.

Alliance Française French Film Festival
Till Wednesday, 10 April 2025
affrenchfilmfestival.org