Andrew Haigh’s All of Us Strangers emerges as one of the most quietly devastating and emotionally resonant films of 2023. From its opening scene, where Adam (Andrew Scott) and Harry (Paul Mescal) meet in the empty expanse of their apartment complex, the film invites viewers into a world filled with space, vibrant colors, and thoughtful design. Andrew Haigh, known for his work on films like “Weekend” and “45 Years,” crafts a poignant narrative that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting specter of the past. What transpires certainly stands as one of his best works yet as a director.
Andrew Scott delivers an excellent performance in the lead role, portraying a character navigating the intricate dynamics of a burgeoning same-sex relationship and the surreal opportunity to reconnect with his deceased parents. All of Us Strangers gracefully oscillates between intimacy and fantasy, creating a delicate balance that allows Scott to showcase his range as an actor. Paul Mescal, in the supporting role of Harry, captivates with his ability to convey a sense of smiling through pain, adding layers to the emotional depth of the film. Both performances are genuine, alive, and perfectly attuned to the film’s tone.
And what stands out most in All of Us Strangers is this seamless collaboration among the cast and crew. From Andrew Haigh to the lead actors, as well as Claire Foy and Jamie Bell (portraying Adam’s parents), everyone operates on an extraordinary level of understanding. The film feels like a collective vision, with each contributor working in harmony to bring a shared vision to life. The result is an easy, heart-wrenching, and endearing cinematic experience that resonates on a profound level. It’s a devastatingly rich text about grief and confiding in one another.
Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch’s dreary score and Jamie D. Ramsay’s vivid, colorful cinematography enhance the film’s sense of loneliness. The juxtaposition of deep and lively colors against the backdrop of profound solitude creates a visual poetry that complements the narrative’s emotional weight.
And the final act of All of Us Strangers lands with a powerful impact, delivering a revelation that hits the audience like a ton of bricks. The film’s closing moments leave an indelible mark, prompting a collective big exhale from the viewers. While it’s early to determine its place on my year-end favorites list, the film is poised to be remembered as a stunning and beautiful exploration of reflection and introspection.
All of Us Strangers is not just a movie; it’s a finely strung, precise set of emotions, skillfully conducted by Andrew Haigh and performed with heartbreaking brilliance by the entire ensemble. I thought often of Petite Maman (Céline Sciamma) and Personal Shopper (Olivier Assayas) during my screening, as this trio of supernatural, grief-stricken dramas all use common genre devices to really get at the bonds between family members that last well into the afterlife. All of Us Strangers is a deeply sad yet profoundly moving experience, this film lands a devastating gut punch that lingers long after the credits roll.
Score: 8/10
Watch All of Us Strangers (2023) on Hulu and VOD
All of Us Strangers Cast
Cast
Andrew Scott as Adam
Paul Mescal as Harry
Jamie Bell as Dad
Claire Foy as Mum
Crew
Director: Andrew Haigh
Writer: Andrew Haigh
Cinematography: Jamie D. Ramsay
Editor: Jonathan Alberts
Composer: Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch
