Living is a cozy little film despite being filmed with cold images and dialogue that is kept at arms length. The film's writer and director manage to fill those spaces with a kind of spark of passion which lights the film in a way that is unexpected. That and Nighy's rightly lauded performance give Living a real life.
Living follows it's inspiration (the 1952 film Ikiru) very closely and anyone who is familiar with that film will see it clearly. However Living finds its own pace with its embrace of a truly British aesthetic. Hermanus films this both as a period piece and as a tribute to the films of that era. This is especially highlighted in the film's opening credits and it's ending marked with a "The End".
The film doesn't play out like one would expect, with the final act being more of a reflection than a climax. The catharsis we are seeking comes from the conversations of those left behind. It is a bit jarring and some of the final conversations feel set up a bit. But the power of the film's story and Nighy's character's small but profound legacy is compelling. Nighy, who is often known for playing more outstanding roles, truly does shine in this very understated role.
Living
Starring: Bill Nighy, Aimee Lou Wood, Alex Sharp, , Adrian Rawlins, Oliver Chris, Tom Burke, Barney Fishwick, Patsy Ferran,
Director: Oliver Hermanus
Writer: Kazuo Ishiguro
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