The Worst Person In The World Review - SDIFF 2021

This is a study of a purposeless woman who is having a difficult time finding the easy routes in life. She always avoids the hard parts because she doesn't want to commit to what life is all about or to fall into one specific idea. And within all of that, she's very self destructive and it will lead to her feeling worse than before down the road.

That is at its core what this movie is about. At least how I took it.

This idea the story talks about is represented in the most attainable, emotionally resonating and riveting version possible.

And all credit goes to the director, who displays a completely functional vision and wonderful craftsmanship to keep you engaged, invested and interested all the way through. His choices within the narrative to create a silent chaotic energy was powerful and gave legitimate weight to key moments in the film.

The performances all around are very charismatic. The chemistry throughout the whole ensemble is natural and on point. You're always feeling an intimate connection with all the relationships on screen and that's completely due to the performances being brought forth. I never felt that anyone was an outsider or miscast at any point.

What I loved the most about this film was its approach to handling the ideas on its mind. It never favors one side of the idea but rather embrace and explore both sides of the same coin. At points, you resent Julie but within them you also completely understand why she does what she does even if you don't necessarily agree with what she's doing. It doesn't have to make sense for us but makes sense for her and it absolutely does. You get both an inside and outside perspective of Julie: how she feels and what those feelings can do to the people around her.

While I did find the navigation to be a little predictable, the execution completely won me over. From its charming atmosphere, thoughtful direction, strong performances and above all else a beautiful approach and handling of its themes and ideas, this humorous and resonant character study completely charms and keeps you thoroughly invested all the through.

Grade: A-