Where Hands Touch (2018) – A Poignant Tale of Forbidden Love
Title: Where Hands Touch
Director: Amma Asante
Release Date: September 14, 2018
Genre: Drama, Romance, War
Streaming Services: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix (varies by region)
Synopsis
“Where Hands Touch” is a stirring historical drama set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany. Directed by Amma Asante, the film follows the harrowing journey of Leyna (Amandla Stenberg), a biracial teenager navigating life in a perilous and prejudiced society. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she forms a bond with Lutz (George MacKay), a member of the Hitler Youth. This relationship explores the complexities of love and identity in one of history’s darkest eras.
Review
“Where Hands Touch” delivers a narrative that is both compelling and controversial. Amma Asante, known for her work on films like “Belle” and “A United Kingdom,” once again dives into the exploration of race and identity, this time through the lens of a seldom-told aspect of World War II.
Amandla Stenberg’s performance as Leyna is captivating. She embodies a character who is both resilient and vulnerable, grappling with the constant threat to her existence due to her mixed heritage. Stenberg’s portrayal brings a nuanced understanding of the internal and external conflicts faced by those of mixed race during the Nazi regime.
George MacKay as Lutz offers a complex portrayal of a young man indoctrinated by Nazi ideology yet conflicted by his growing affection for Leyna. The chemistry between Stenberg and MacKay is palpable, making their forbidden romance both believable and heartbreaking.
The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of the time. Scenes depicting the discrimination and violence faced by Leyna are poignant and unsettling, forcing the audience to confront the harsh truths of history. However, Asante also weaves moments of tenderness and hope throughout the narrative, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Cinematographically, “Where Hands Touch” is visually stunning. The film’s use of muted colors and stark contrasts effectively captures the bleakness of the era. The production design and costumes authentically recreate the period, immersing viewers in the historical context.
Criticisms
Despite its many strengths, “Where Hands Touch” has faced criticism for its portrayal of a romance between a biracial girl and a member of the Hitler Youth. Some critics argue that the film risks romanticizing a deeply problematic relationship, overshadowing the broader historical atrocities. The film’s approach to this sensitive subject matter has sparked debate about the responsibilities of historical storytelling in cinema.
Additionally, while the film’s pacing allows for deep character development, it sometimes drags, particularly in the second act. Some viewers might find the slower narrative tempo detracts from the overall impact of the story.
Conclusion
“Where Hands Touch” is a bold and thought-provoking film that delves into a lesser-known facet of World War II history. While it may court controversy with its central romance, it undeniably shines in its performances, direction, and cinematography. Amma Asante’s film is a poignant reminder of the complexities of identity and the enduring power of love and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
For those interested in historical dramas that challenge conventional narratives, “Where Hands Touch” is a must-watch. It is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix, and can also be rented or purchased on platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
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