Complex

Beyond Simple Stories: Why We're Drawn to Complexity in Film

Isn’t it wonderful when a film just gets you? Not necessarily in a feel-good, everything-is-perfect kind of way, but in that deeper sense – the one where it makes you think, question, and maybe even feel a little uncomfortable. That feeling often comes from complexity, and I've been thinking a lot about how filmmakers tackle it lately. It’s more than just a plot twist; it’s about exploring nuanced characters, messy relationships, and situations that defy easy answers.

Think about River of Desire. On the surface, it’s a story about love and rivalry in a tropical paradise. But underneath that sun-drenched veneer lies a tangled web of sibling dynamics, jealousy, and unspoken desires – all fueled by one woman's presence. It’s not just about who gets the girl; it’s about how desire itself can disrupt even the closest bonds. I remember seeing this years ago and being struck by how beautifully it captured that feeling of simmering tension you get in families where everyone should be on good terms, but isn’t.

And that's a thread we see echoed across so many films. In This Moment, for example, doesn't shy away from the complexities of identity and belonging within a polyamorous relationship – especially when one person is navigating their journey as a trans woman. It’s not about presenting a perfect picture of alternative relationships; it’s about honestly portraying the challenges and triumphs that come with love in all its forms.

Then there's Real Mother, which tackles adoption with such sensitivity. The film so cleverly dismantles our assumptions about what constitutes "family." Xavier’s journey to meet his biological mother isn’t a simple quest for answers; it’s a profound exploration of identity and the realization that connection transcends biology. It reminds us, as RIVERCARCASS does with its wandering protagonist searching for home within herself, that belonging can be found in unexpected places.

Even something seemingly straightforward like Things Will Be Different, with its heist gone wrong and time-bending farmhouse, uses its sci-fi premise to delve into the messy realities of sibling resentment and regret. And let's not forget Friendship, which bravely explores adult male intimacy and the potential consequences of seeking connection outside societal norms – a theme that feels particularly relevant in our increasingly isolated world.

Ultimately, these films aren’t offering easy solutions or tidy resolutions. They’re holding up a mirror to ourselves, challenging us to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the complexities of relationships. And isn't that what truly great art does?

What are some films you find particularly complex? I'd love to hear your thoughts!