Malcolm and Marie (2021)

Superb Relationship Drama - Malcolm and Marie review by GI

This is a quite mesmerising relationship drama with two outstanding performances from John David Washington and Zendaya which make this film absorbing and clever. Shot in black & white gives it a timeless feel and the sense of their isolation here fits neatly with a film made in the midst of the pandemic although the narrative is not related to it. Malcolm and his girlfriend Marie return home from a film award ceremony at which Malcolm has been celebrated for the new film he has directed. During his acceptance speech he failed to thank Marie, an oversight he feels is insignificant but Marie harbours deeper feelings and this opens wide cracks in their relationship which are played out during the film. As a two hander the actors give powerhouse performances that deserve recognition and lift this drama from what could've been tedious to something humorous and compelling. The delicate jazz soundtrack plays to the rhythm of the ups and downs of the couple as they explore their issues with each other, their art and their pasts. It's an impressive film and well worth checking out.