Pity the Lovers
Pity the Lovers

Movie spotlight

Pity the Lovers

2019
Movie
105 min
Icelandic

Óskar and Maggi are two brothers, longing for love but seemingly doomed to stay single. Óskar shies from relationships but is secretly in love with his childhood sweetheart Anna, engaged to another and safely out of reach. Maggi on the other hand is overly eager and goes from one relationship to another, hoping for eternal love each time. A film about the complexity of human relations and the searching for love.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users82%
Director: Richard AyoadeGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A poignant comedy-drama exploring the complexities of love and relationships, 'Pity the Lovers' follows a young couple navigating the ups and downs of their marriage. When a series of misunderstandings and personal ambitions threaten to pull them apart, they must confront their own insecurities and learn to communicate effectively. The film humorously and heartbreakingly dissects the challenges of maintaining intimacy in a modern world.

Critical Reception

While 'Pity the Lovers' garnered praise for its charming performances and witty script, it received a mixed-to-positive reception. Critics lauded the chemistry between the lead actors and Ayoade's distinctive visual style, though some found the narrative to be somewhat predictable. Audience reception was generally favorable, appreciating its relatable themes and emotional depth.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sharp dialogue and the naturalistic performances of its leads.

  • Ayoade's signature visual flair adds a unique aesthetic to the familiar romantic comedy-drama tropes.

  • Some critics noted that the plot treads familiar ground, occasionally lacking narrative surprise.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the film's honest portrayal of relationship struggles and its blend of humor and pathos. Many viewers connected with the characters' journeys and the film's optimistic outlook on love, despite its challenges. Some found the pacing a little slow in parts.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the BAFTA Awards for Olivia Colman.

Fun Fact

The distinctive, slightly surreal production design of the film was inspired by a combination of 1960s European cinema and the works of graphic novelist Chris Ware.

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