Heartbeats

Heartbeats

I was anxious to visit the new TIFF Bell Lightbox complex. This the new home for the Toronto International Film festival. You have to see it to believe how wonderful film going can really be. The complex includes 5 cinemas, three restaurants, a gallery and a gift shop. The café was standing room only. The vast lobbies are beautifully outfitted and give the aura of a grand theatre and not a movie house. The film showed in an auditorium that was richly furnished with upholstered comfortable chairs. The washrooms are worth a visit. The finest most modern facilities make for a great total experience.

I was anxious to see Heartbeats written and directed by the very talented Xavier Dolan. His first film I Killed My Mother was also a big hit. Dolan can now add editor and costume designer to his resume. What a great talent.

I think everyone will relate at some level to this touching film. It is a work of art. The camera lingers on certain scenes and becomes an emotional experience. The theme deals with infatuation, love and jealousy.

Dolan plays the part of Francis. He lives with the very beautiful Marie. The adorable flirtatious Nicholas comes into their life. He can wink or move a muscle in his face that gives a come on image.

The problem is that both Francis and Marie both become infatuated. They find excuses to be with Nicholas. At the same time Francis and Marie continue to show affection for one another.

Nicholas needs a place to stay. The three ends up in one bed with Nicholas settled cozily between Francis and Marie.

At no time is there a suggestion that any of the characters are having sex. They both want to have Nicholas but it is all done with gestures and words. At one point Nicholas gets very close to Marie at a party and says,” What comes next?”

The three go off to the country together. Nicholas teaches Francis how to eat a marshmallow in a very seductive manner. Marie gets jealous and takes off. Marie and Francis find their relationship very strained. He tells her that her dress is out of date. She blows smoke right in his face.

All the characters smoke continuously and throughout the film. At one point Marie states,” Smoke hides the shit.”

There are a lot if ripe emotions expressed. In many ways the film is art in motion. You may or may not like the characters but you certainly will relate to the feelings expressed.

The list of upcoming events at TIFF Bell Light Box is astounding. Feature films, art exhibits and concerts could keep anyone busy every day of the week.

Some newspapers are not listing the events. If you have a problem Google Bell Lightbox or check Now Magazine.