From Beginning to End (2009)

From Beginning to End

• Let me start by saying that this is not at all what I was thinking it would be. I quite literally knew nothing about it going into it, except that it’s a queer romance between two men. Well, major spoiler here (not really, seeing as the entire film hinges on this one thing): the lovers are brothers. Not step-brothers, or adoptive brothers, but brother brothers. Did I get the ick? Absolutely. Watching this film was just…..awkward and uncomfortable. Maybe borderline sickening for some. On the flipside……it was a strangely beautiful story that shows a powerful bond. Even though it was weird, the connection and chemistry between the men was undeniably strong. To bring in a quote from Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’, which I can relate to how this film is both gross and beautiful: "How can it be both? It can’t. But it is. It’s paradoxical, and yet, it works." So that’s where I’ll leave this off in regards to the plot and themes. The performances from the two brothers were quite amazing, and again, their chemistry was off the charts. Of course, you kind of squirm and cringe, but at the same time, you experience a love that shouldn’t happen but it does and it’s intimate and strong. Lastly, the score was very emotional and had a strong string section that pulled at my heartstrings in certain scenes. Overall, this is a good but not great film that explores a taboo subject, and was certainly controversial when it was released. And it still is to this day. It’s probably not for the masses, but it can be strangely beautiful. I would still recommend it, as uncomfortable as it is.