The impossible (2012)

Director: Juan Antonio Bayona

Only when you lose something, you understand the real value of that. It had to be an ordinary holiday trip to Thailand just with Christmas gifts around but for many families it turned out to be a disaster. Something you would love to forget but you cannot.

It was the morning of December 26, 2004 when a dream land became hell. Maria, Henry and their three kids (Lucas, Thomas, Simon) where hanging around the beach when a sudden monstrous wave shocked them and washed away everything that got to be on its way. Lucky to have survived, Maria and the oldest son Lucas find themselves separated from the rest of their family. 

The film focuses on the strength of human spirit. Barely alive Maria never loses hope to reunite with her family, on the other hand, Henry would climb any mountain or would swim any river (because ain't no mountain high enough) just to see his wife and Lucas again. Eventually, after overcoming a series of obstacles and pain, as well as managing to keep body and soul together, all family members get together and happily find their way back home.

All in all, I would not say that this film is an artistic masterpiece but it does bring the right emotions. From the beginning until the end you can fell the desperation and happiness (after all) from all the characters.  Otherwise how can you justify bursting into tears at the end of the performance?

The Painted Veil (2006)

 

 

Director: John Curran

Probably, one of the saddest and the most emotional films I have seen in a while.  I almost burst into tears at the end of the "The painted veil". It is one of those films, you know, which you want to watch again and again, and again. You might have understood that I love history and I love romance but when both collide - it is a perfect combination.

Kitty was from the upper-class, Walter - kind of in the middle, doctor. He fell in love from the first sight, she - thought love will come by the time (younger sister could not marry to someone before her). Walter went crazy for Kitty, she - crazy for Charlie Townsend. Nothing to do, scandal was not needed, everything had to be just fine, like nothing had happened. They went to a small, cholera ridden village (in China). Walter - to fight off the deadly pestilence, Kitty -  to fight off her feelings for Charlie. Eventually they find their way back to each other, but, what a pity, too late.

"The painted veil" is a must-see film for all of you who believe that true love can overcome any difficulties. Beautifully captured, invincible emotionals, historical background. Despite everything, it is a love story - magical and romantic. Edward Norton reveals all the hidden emotionals of Walter in a very good way, nothing to add. Naomi Watts would keep up with him, if only she did not hold her mouth open always when Kitty had nothing to say.

I definitely recommend watching this film for those who are like me - hopeless romantics and history lovers.