On Body and Soul (2017) Movie Review: A Surreal and Tender Love Story
On Body and Soul, directed by Ildikó Enyedi, is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that won the Golden Bear at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival in 2017. This Hungarian drama is an exploration of love, loneliness, and human connection, told through a unique and surreal narrative that blurs the lines between dreams and reality.
Plot Summary
The story unfolds in a Hungarian slaughterhouse, where two seemingly opposite individuals—Endre (Géza Morcsányi), a reserved and somewhat jaded financial director, and Mária (Alexandra Borbély), an introverted quality inspector—discover that they share the same dream every night. In these dreams, they are deer wandering through a snowy forest, connected by a profound sense of understanding and companionship.
As they become aware of this shared dream, they start to form a tentative bond in the waking world, despite their social awkwardness and emotional barriers. The film delicately explores their journey as they navigate their feelings and attempt to bring the connection from their dreams into reality.
Themes and Symbolism
On Body and Soul is rich in symbolism, using the contrasting settings of a slaughterhouse and a peaceful forest to explore themes of vulnerability, intimacy, and the struggle to connect with others. The dreams of the deer symbolize purity and an idealized form of love, in stark contrast to the harsh, bloody reality of the slaughterhouse, where the characters work.
The film also delves into themes of loneliness and the challenges of opening up to another person. Both Endre and Mária have built emotional walls due to their past experiences, and the film sensitively portrays their gradual efforts to lower these defenses and embrace the possibility of love.
Visuals and Cinematography
Visually, On Body and Soul is breathtaking. The dream sequences, with their serene and ethereal portrayal of the deer in the forest, are beautifully shot and provide a stark contrast to the cold, industrial environment of the slaughterhouse. The cinematography by Máté Herbai captures the delicate nuances of the characters’ emotions, using subtle lighting and framing to emphasize their isolation and tentative steps toward connection.
The film’s use of sound also plays a crucial role in setting the mood, with a minimalist score that enhances the emotional impact of key scenes without overpowering the narrative. The natural sounds in the forest scenes create a sense of peace and tranquility, further highlighting the contrast between the dream world and reality.
Performances
The performances in On Body and Soul are understated yet powerful. Alexandra Borbély, who won the European Film Award for Best Actress, delivers a nuanced portrayal of Mária, capturing her character’s awkwardness and vulnerability with great sensitivity. Géza Morcsányi, in his first acting role, brings depth to Endre, a man who has resigned himself to a life of solitude until he meets Mária. Their chemistry is subtle and authentic, making their relationship both believable and touching.
Where to Watch Online
For those interested in watching On Body and Soul, several streaming platforms offer the film:
- Netflix
- Overview: On Body and Soul is available for streaming on Netflix, making it easily accessible for subscribers.
- Availability: Available for streaming with a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video
- Overview: The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, offering viewers flexibility in how they choose to watch.
- Availability: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes
- Overview: On Body and Soul is available for digital rental or purchase on Apple TV and iTunes, providing another option for viewers who prefer to own their films.
- Availability: Available for rental or purchase.
- Hulu
- Overview: Hulu occasionally features international films, including On Body and Soul, though availability may vary.
- Availability: Check for availability on Hulu’s platform.
Why Watch On Body and Soul?
On Body and Soul is a beautifully crafted film that offers a unique and poetic exploration of love and human connection. Its blend of surrealism and stark realism, coupled with strong performances and stunning visuals, makes it a standout in contemporary cinema. The film’s delicate handling of its themes and its emotional depth resonate long after the credits roll, offering a thought-provoking experience for viewers.
The film’s availability on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV/iTunes, and potentially Hulu ensures that it is accessible to a broad audience. Whether you’re a fan of international cinema, romantic dramas, or simply looking for a film that offers something different, On Body and Soul is a must-watch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, On Body and Soul is a mesmerizing film that deftly explores the complexities of love and connection in a world where isolation often prevails. With its unique narrative, strong performances, and stunning cinematography, it stands as a powerful and moving piece of cinema. The film’s availability on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video makes it easy to access and enjoy this cinematic gem.
