New Movies: Bluish (2024) by Lilith Kraxner, Milena Czernovsky

"Bluish (2024)": Drifting Through a Gloomy Urban Atmosphere

Description: From Austrian filmmaking duo Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky, "Bluish (2024)" is a contemplative and atmospheric drama that follows two young individuals navigating the disorienting drift of early adulthood in a city's winter. Through a series of observed moments and intertwining glimpses into their lives, the film captures a fragile state of being and the subtle search for connection in a world where realities overlap and blur.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32874908/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/464186/

About movie: https://squareeyesfilm.com/features/bluish/

Link to watch (professional screening): https://pro.festivalscope.com/film/bluish

Detailed Summary: "Bluish" centers on Errol and Sasha, two characters in their twenties who find themselves somewhat disoriented and without clear direction as they move through the gloomy winter days of an urban environment. The film eschews a traditional linear narrative, instead presenting fragments of their everyday lives with a soft, observational gaze. As Errol and Sasha drift individually through the city, their perspectives and experiences offer glimpses into a reality where people, stories, and places are subtly interconnected. The film captures a sense of aimlessness and a fragile state of being that is neither entirely melancholic nor hopeful, but rather a state of in-between, a "bluish" feeling. Through its evocative atmosphere and ध्यानful observation of small social interactions and moments of longing, the film explores themes of insecurity, uncertainty, and the complex desire for touch and connection in a contemporary world shaped by recent changes.

Plot Summary:

• The film follows two young characters, Errol and Sasha, in their twenties.

• They are portrayed as somewhat disoriented and drifting aimlessly in a city during winter.

• The narrative consists of observed fragments of their everyday lives.

• The film explores how people, stories, and places overlap and intertwine through their perspectives.

• It captures an atmosphere of ambiguity, longing, and a state of being in-between.

The plot is an observational and atmospheric character study focusing on mood and subtle connections rather than a strong linear narrative.

Directors' Vision: Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky collaborated on writing, directing, and editing "Bluish," their second feature film following "Beatrix." Their vision for "Bluish" was not centered on a conventional plot but rather on grasping an atmosphere and a "state of being." They sought to capture the feeling of a post-COVID world where social life had rearranged itself, resulting in experiences that felt new, exciting, but also awkward and uncertain. The directors were interested in coincidences, overlaps, and the different realities that can exist within a city. They describe the characters as insecure and unsure of how they want to be perceived, longing for a fluid state and for connection, but also uncertain about how close they want to get – hence the title "Bluish," representing an in-between feeling. In the editing process, they intentionally deconstructed linearity to emphasize the intertwining realities and atmospheres, incorporating observed and experienced moments to convey this state of being.

Themes:

• Disorientation and Aimlessness: The film captures the feeling of being adrift and lacking clear direction in early adulthood.

• Atmosphere and Mood: The film prioritizes creating a specific emotional and sensory experience for the viewer.

• Observation of Everyday Life: The film finds meaning and connection in the seemingly mundane fragments of daily existence.

• Intertwining Realities: The narrative structure and character perspectives highlight how different lives and stories overlap in an urban environment.

• Fragile State of Being: The film explores a delicate emotional state characterized by ambiguity and uncertainty.

• Longing and Connection: Despite their disorientation, the characters experience a subtle desire for touch and human connection.

• In-Betweenness: The title and the characters' experiences emphasize a state of transition and ambiguity.

• Contemporary Urban Experience: The film reflects on the feeling of living in a city in the wake of recent societal shifts.

Key Success Factors:

• Distinct Atmospheric and Observational Style: The directors' focus on mood and subtle details sets the film apart.

• Authentic Portrayal of Youthful Disorientation: The film captures a relatable feeling of uncertainty in early adulthood.

• Collaborative Directorial Vision: Kraxner and Czernovsky's shared approach to filmmaking is a key element.

• Festival Recognition and Awards: Winning the Grand Prix at FIDMarseille and screening at other major festivals highlight the film's artistic merit.

• Evocative Cinematography: The visual style contributes significantly to the film's atmosphere.

• Exploration of Subtle Emotional Landscapes: The film delves into nuanced feelings and states of being.

Summary Short: Directed by Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky, the Austrian drama "Bluish (2024)" follows two disoriented young adults drifting through a winter city, capturing a fragile state of being and intertwining realities through atmospheric and observational fragments of their lives. It won the Grand Prix at FIDMarseille 2024 and screened at other major festivals.

Awards and Nominations: "Bluish (2024)" received the prestigious Grand Prix at FIDMarseille - Festival international de Cinéma de Marseille in June 2024. This is a major award for the film and a significant recognition of its artistic quality. The film was also selected for and screened at several other notable international film festivals in 2024, including the New York Film Festival, Viennale Film Festival, Stockholm International Film Festival, and Paris Chéries Chéris Film Festival.

Critics Reception: Critical reception for "Bluish (2024)" has been generally positive, with critics praising its atmospheric quality, observational style, and unique approach to portraying youthful disorientation and subtle emotional states.

• Screen Daily: Notes that the directors were "trying to grasp an atmosphere" and describes the film as capturing a "state of in-between all the time." Reviewer Amber Wilkinson calls it a "Generation Z cousin of Millennial mumblecore," highlighting how moods are divined through gesture and look rather than just dialogue, and that it's "less about plot development than the characters' quotidian existence in the liminal space."

• Cineuropa: Reviewer Olivia Popp notes the film's "style and technique of evoking liminality" are effective and that it places viewers "in a state of remembrance, where time isn't linear." She calls it a "meditative, experimental sophomore film that is more of a trance-like cinematic concept."

• Film Fest Report: Reviewer Michael Granados praises the film's "sublime pursuit of connection and longing within the ordinary," noting that the directors are "on their own wavelength, admiring how the subtleties of life make lasting impressions."

• High on Films: Describes the film as a "Pale Blue Glance at the Dullness of Life" and a "complex voyage" that is "so nice to watch" despite its premise.

• Overly Honest Reviews: Calls it a "journey through melancholy urban landscapes and the restlessness of youth."

Overall Critics Reception: "Bluish" has been well-received by critics who appreciate its unconventional structure and focus on atmosphere and character interiority. Its success at festivals and positive reviews highlight its effectiveness in capturing a specific mood and exploring the subtle emotional landscapes of its young characters.

Reviews: Detailed reviews from the various film festivals where "Bluish" screened offer consistent praise for its unique qualities.

• Key Praises: Reviewers consistently highlight the film's strong atmosphere and its success in evoking a specific feeling or state of being. The observational style and the directors' ability to find cinematic interest in everyday moments are frequently lauded. The film's non-linear editing and its effect on the perception of time and reality are seen as deliberate and effective artistic choices. The performances of Leonie Bramberger and Natasha Goncharova are central to conveying the subtle emotions and disorientation of the characters. The cinematography by Antonia de la Luz Kašik is also noted for contributing to the film's visual mood. The film is seen as a strong representation of contemporary youth and their experiences of uncertainty and longing.

• Points of Discussion (not necessarily criticism): The film's lack of a traditional plot and its focus on atmosphere may be a point of discussion for some viewers accustomed to more conventional narratives. The experimental nature of the film is noted, which may appeal to some audiences more than others.

Overall Reviews: The available reviews indicate that "Bluish" is a critically appreciated film for its artistic ambition, atmospheric depth, and authentic portrayal of a specific emotional state. It is seen as a significant work from a directing duo with a clear and unique cinematic voice.

Production: "Bluish (2024)" is an Austrian production. The film was directed, written, and edited by Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky. It was produced by Lixi Frank and David Bohun through PANAMA Film KG. The cast features Leonie Bramberger and Natasha Goncharova in the central roles. Antonia de la Luz Kašik served as the cinematographer, and Benedikt Palier composed the music. The film has a runtime of either 82 or 83 minutes and was shot on 16mm film, contributing to its visual texture and atmosphere.

Production Companies:

• PANAMA Film KG (Austria)

Sales Companies:

• Square Eyes (International) - Handles international sales for the film.

Distribution Companies: Specific distribution companies for "Bluish (2024)" in various territories are not widely available in the provided search results. Its distribution will depend on agreements made with Square Eyes following its festival run.

Release Date on Streaming: Information about a streaming release date for "Bluish (2024)" is not available in the provided search results. Its availability on streaming platforms would depend on distribution deals secured in different territories.

Theatrical Release: "Bluish (2024)" had its World Premiere at FIDMarseille - Festival international de Cinéma de Marseille on June 26, 2024. It subsequently screened at numerous other film festivals throughout 2024. Information about wider theatrical releases beyond the festival circuit is not readily available.

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Unique Atmospheric and Observational Style: Experience a film that prioritizes mood and subtle observation over traditional plot.

• Authentic Portrayal of Youthful Experience: The film captures a relatable feeling of disorientation and longing in early adulthood.

• From a Promising Directing Duo: See the second feature from the critically recognized team of Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky.

• Award-Winning Festival Film: The Grand Prix win at FIDMarseille highlights its artistic merit.

• Visually and Sonically Evocative: The cinematography and music contribute to the film's immersive atmosphere.

Why to Watch Movie:

• If You Appreciate Experimental and Contemplative Cinema: Engage with a film that challenges traditional narrative structures.

• Interested in Films About Youth and Identity: Gain insight into the experiences and emotional landscapes of young adults.

• For Austrian and European Art-House Films: Discover a critically acclaimed independent production.

• Enjoy Films Where Atmosphere is Key: Immerse yourself in the mood and feeling created by the directors.

• Curious About Non-Linear Storytelling: See how deconstructed editing can create meaning and connection.

What Movie Trend film is Following: Observational Cinema / Atmospheric Films / Films Exploring Youth and Disorientation / Non-Linear Narratives / Independent Art-House: The film aligns with trends in observational cinema that focus on capturing reality and atmosphere with minimal plot. Its exploration of the emotional state of young adults fits within contemporary films about youth and identity. The use of non-linear editing and its independent production also place it within the realm of art-house and experimental cinema.

What Big Social Trend is Following: Increased Focus on Mental Well-being and Navigating Uncertainty in Young Adults: The film's portrayal of disorientation, anxiety, and the search for connection among young people resonates with the growing societal conversation around mental health challenges, particularly for those in their twenties navigating a complex and rapidly changing world. It reflects the emotional landscape of a generation facing unique pressures and uncertainties.

Final Verdict: "Bluish (2024)" is a captivating and artful film that distinguishes itself through its unique atmospheric and observational approach. Lilith Kraxner and Milena Czernovsky have crafted a compelling portrait of youthful disorientation and the subtle search for connection in a contemporary urban landscape. By prioritizing mood and a "state of being" over traditional narrative, and utilizing non-linear editing to create a sense of overlapping realities, the directors offer a genuinely immersive and thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film's critical acclaim, including winning the Grand Prix at FIDMarseille and screening at numerous prestigious festivals, solidifies its position as a significant work of independent art-house cinema. For viewers who appreciate contemplative storytelling, evocative atmospheres, and a nuanced exploration of the emotional complexities of young adulthood, "Bluish" is a highly recommended and rewarding film.

Recommendations for Film Makers:

• Prioritize Atmosphere and Emotion in Storytelling: The film demonstrates that a strong mood and focus on internal states can be as compelling as a plot-driven narrative.

• Experiment with Narrative Structure: Non-linear editing and a fragmented approach can effectively reflect psychological states and create unique connections.

• Observe and Incorporate Details from Everyday Life: Finding cinematic value in the mundane can lead to authentic and resonant portrayals.

• Collaborate Closely on Artistic Vision: The successful partnership between Kraxner and Czernovsky highlights the power of a shared directorial vision.

Recommendations for Movie Industry:

• Support and Distribute Observational and Atmospheric Films: Recognize the artistic merit and potential audience for films that prioritize mood and subtle human experience.

• Champion Filmmakers with Unique Cinematic Voices: Encourage and provide platforms for directors who deviate from conventional storytelling.

• Invest in Films That Explore the Emotional Landscape of Contemporary Youth: Support stories that offer authentic and nuanced portrayals of the challenges and experiences of young adults.

• Recognize the Importance of Film Festivals for Launching Independent and Experimental Cinema: Acknowledge the crucial role of festivals in bringing these films to critical attention and securing distribution.