The film Passing is both simple and complex at the same time. The structure is beautifully delicate, mostly following the discussions between two characters as they meet over and over again through a period of time, but those conversations richly explore the complicated intersections of race, gender, and class barriers. There is an incredible tension built over the course of the film as the perilous situations of its centred characters begin to unravel. The movie is a ticking time bomb that is gripping from its first gorgeous moments.
Passing truly is a gorgeous film. There is something inexplicably beautiful about black and white films and the director of photography has found the magic sweet spot between the medium's strengths and the beautiful art direction. It is a joy to watch each scene.
But there is more to the choice of blank and white photography here. Certainly there is the obvious symbolism, but there is more to that. The lack of "colour" in the film blurs lines and creates visuals that amplify the characters' experiences, their points of view, and how they are viewed. It is an essential part of the film's make up to be shot this way.
At the heart of this are the incredible performances of its stars Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga. Both are incredible to watch and their chemistry together is off the charts. Also strong is André Holland. It is a dream team that delivers.
Director Rebecca Hall has made an incredibly impressive debut with Passing, a film that shows a passion for both the subject and the craft.
Passing
Starring: Tessa Thompson, Ruth Negga, André Holland, Alexander Skarsgård, Bill Camp
Writer/Director: Rebecca Hall
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