27.02.23
45 Years is a ghost story. And a horror film. But it’s presented as a drama about a retired childless couple with a secret. Delicate on one hand, yet brooding and haunting on the other, the film plants a shard of ice into a seemingly solid marriage and shows us how trust and intimacy can be shattered.
It’s a real ‘slow chiller’ (rather than a slow burner, let’s stick with the cold theme!), with some excellent narrative devices utilised which I don’t think I’ve seen before. One of the most potent and memorable is the attic scene, with the incredibly effective use of a split screen and an old photo projector. This allows Charlotte Rampling’s character to discover the unknown, whilst at the same time allowing us to see both her reactions, as well as what she is seeing the whole time.
But even more impressive is the finale of the film. Without giving anything else away, it’s simply one of the best movie endings and final scenes I can think of. I think about it often and it sends shivers down my spine when reminded of it. Rampling’s agonising face and the use of familiar music now heartbreaking in its lyricism syncs up in such a beautiful yet unsettling manner.
45 Years is a great film regardless of these two scenes, and there are many other powerful moments to behold. It makes for a good rewatch and feels somewhat underrated despite its popularity amongst those who have seen it. Andrew Haigh is an assured director who appears to have had some bad luck with the studios he’s been attached to. His new film ‘Strangers’ is out in late 2023 starring Paul Mescal and Claire Foy. I can’t bloody wait.