15.2.23
Living is a gentle but emotional British drama led by Bill Nighy’s poignant performance. It feels like a period piece, and displays London’s golden age in sepia tones, reflecting simpler times. Most of the film concerns the bureaucratic tedium of public office, but through the protagonist’s anguish, the mundane instead feels sophisticated and dutiful, reflecting the life of Nighy’s Mr Williams.
Perhaps it was the award-laden anticipation of the film, or that it is based on the classic Japanese film Ikiru (which I haven’t seen, but I imagine is more sombre and affecting than Living), but I felt quite disappointed leaving the cinema, and wanted something more powerful. Perhaps it didn’t resonate with me, and I should check out the source film so I may appreciate it more. Living is very charming and has a warm, life-affirming message, but it isn’t anything special.