Love at First Sight (1991)

 

Love at First Sight
Liebe auf den Ersten Blick
Germany, 1991, 103 minutes

Director: Rudolf Thome
Production Company: Moana-Film GmbH
Producer: Rudolf Thome
Screenwriter: Rudolf Thome
Cinematographer: Sophie Maintigneux
Editor: Dörte Völz
Composer: Chico Hamilton
Leading Players: Geno Lechner, Julian Benedikt, Margarita Broich, Kyana Krettschmer, Nicolai Wolf Thome, Joya Thome

Rudolf Thome, one of Germany's veteran low-budget Û filmmakers, is often likened to Eric Rohmer in his penchant for philosophical discourse on the amorous relations between ordinary men and women. In this film he offers us one of the most gentle and harmonious love stories imaginable. Elsa, a futurologist and single mother from West Berlin meets Zenon, a widowed, unemplployed archaeologist from East Berlin, at a playground where they take their children one sunny, breezy afternoon. The romance that follows is in large measure due to the efforts of Elsa who, as the more outgoing and vibrant personality, initiates the conversation and their first date. The love affair goes so smoothly, devoid of conflicts or obstacles, that they, decide to live together - possibly happy ever after.... on another level, the love story of these two contrasting characters can also be seen as a somewhat ironic metaphor for the reunification between East and West Germany. Whether it is a political metaphor or a love story, all is treated with the utmost simplicity and lightness of touch through a naturalistic mise-en-scène that includes real-time portrayal of diaper changing as well as lovemaking! Yet for all its simplicity and directness, the film resonates with a quiet charm and warmth that affirms the art of its artlessness.

PoChu AuYeung, Vancouver Film Festival, 1991