Longing Movie is a 2024 drama film written and directed by Savi Gabizon, starring Richard Gere, Suzanne Clément, and Diane Kruger. The movie is a remake of Gabizon’s 2017 Israeli film of the same name.
Longing Movie: Story Overview
The story begins when a successful businessman, Daniel, runs into his old girlfriend, Rachel, from his small hometown. During their unexpected meeting, Rachel reveals a shocking secret: they had a child together. This revelation sets Daniel on a journey of self-discovery and emotional reckoning.
Longing Movie: Main Cast
- Richard Gere as Daniel: A wealthy and successful businessman.
- Diane Kruger as Alice: A key character in Daniel’s journey.
- Suzanne Clément as Rachel: Daniel’s old girlfriend who reveals their shared past.
- Marnie McPhail
- Stuart Hughes
- Jessica Clement
Production Details
Filming for Longing Movie began on September 24, 2022, in several locations across Ontario, Canada, including
Toronto, Hamilton, Cambridge, and Kitchener.
Longing Movie: Release Information
The film was released in Canada by Mongrel Media on June 7, 2024, and in the United States on the same day in limited theaters by Lionsgate Films.
Critical Reception
Longing Movie received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, only 18% of 22 critics gave the film a positive review, with an average rating of 4.5/10. Metacritic assigned the film a score of 62 out of 100 based on 6 critics, indicating generally favorable reviews.
Longing Movie: Plot Summary
Meeting an Old Flame
Daniel, a never-married, high-powered businessman, meets his old girlfriend Rachel after many years. He is shocked when Rachel tells him that they had a child together, a boy named Allen, who has recently died in a car accident. This revelation thrusts Daniel into an emotional whirlwind as he grapples with the news of a son he never knew and the grief of his sudden loss.
Journey of Discovery
Determined to learn more about Allen, Daniel travels to Canada, intending to stay only for a few days. However, his brief visit turns into an extended journey as he uncovers more about Allen’s life and the impact he had on those around him.
Confronting the Past
As Daniel delves deeper into Allen’s world, he meets various people who were close to his son. Each encounter challenges Daniel’s preconceived notions and forces him to confront his own fears and regrets. Through these interactions, he learns about Allen’s talents, struggles, and the complex nature of his life.
Transformation
Throughout his journey, Daniel transforms from a detached businessman to a grieving father seeking connection. His meetings with other fathers, especially those who have also experienced loss, help him process his grief and find a new sense of empathy and understanding.
Longing Movie: Themes and Analysis
Grief and Loss
Longing Movie explores the depths of grief and the various ways individuals cope with loss. Daniel’s journey is a poignant depiction of how unexpected news can upend one’s life and force a person to reevaluate their priorities and beliefs.
Connection and Redemption
The film also highlights the importance of connection and redemption. Daniel’s quest to understand his son and make a meaningful contribution to his memory is a testament to the human desire for connection, even after death.
Emotional Resilience
Gabizon’s film is not a straightforward narrative but rather an emotional journey that reflects the chaotic and often irrational nature of grief. The film’s surreal elements underscore the inner turmoil and emotional resilience required to navigate such profound loss.
Final Thoughts
Longing Movie is a deeply emotional film that offers a powerful exploration of grief, connection, and redemption. Richard Gere’s portrayal of Daniel is both compelling and heart-wrenching, capturing the essence of a man grappling with the loss of a son he never knew. Through its intricate storytelling and emotional depth, Longing Movie invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of loss and the enduring human spirit.
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