Preparations to be Together for an Unknown Period of Time

Hungary’s Official Submission to the Academy Awards. Ends Thursday, March 4.

(Hungary / 2020 / Directed by Lili Horvát)

In this superb drama from Hungarian director Lili Horvát, a woman, brimming with love, travels to the man she will start a new life with. On her arrival, he reacts strongly, saying “I don’t know you. This is the first time in my life I’ve ever seen you.” The story that follows “is a spiral staircase, polished to a glossy shine, down which unreliable motivations, self-delusions and romantic obsessions tumble in gorgeous 35mm.” - Variety

Determined to solve the enigma, Márta (Natasa Stork) takes a position at the hospital where her unrequited love, János (Viktor Bodó), works. She keeps a close eye on him, observing and following at a just-shy-of-stalkerish distance. Her decisions seem born as much from a genuine, even scientific fascination as from an erotic impulse, though as she delves deeper, it’s not always clear whether her wits are clouded by love or if other neurological factors are at play. Amidst a delicate web of contrasts and quiet explosions, Márta remains a stunning center for this wonderful mystery. Without saying a word, she draws on the innate power of stillness and silence, transforming the very act of looking into a source of suspense, sensuality, and excitement. A femme fatale who’s entirely her own creation, she uses her passions in pursuit of deeper truths – which might not actually be as strange, or unknowable, as they appear.

Unrated / 1 hr 35 mins.
In English and Hungarian with subtitles.