Her

Image via IMDB

Her is about the predictable and complicated love story between an iOS and its owner, Theodore. Going through a divorce and finding a way to cope, Theodore installs a new operating system to his phone and computer. By doing so, he becomes very close to the artificial intelligence, Samantha, that leads to an unlikely friendship that eventually becomes romantic. Her not only explores the uniqueness of this relationship but truly captures the full complexity that is love.

Joaquin Phoenix’s performance was boundless. He perfectly embodied his character, Theodore, whose permanent state always seemed to be unhappy with a mustache that ironically looked to be a frown. Phoenix’s performance was endearing as it reached the audience concerning dejected situations we’ve faced feeling like utter failures or completely awkward. Scarlett Johansson’s voicing of Samantha gave the iOS system a sincere quality as it was a warm and genuine sensation providing emotional dimension to the frequently used device.

This film touched on personal and relatable issues I believe many are afraid to admit they experience such as this constant state of isolation. There was this universal desire of belonging in the film. Everyone wanted to get rid of the overwhelming sense of loneliness they were experiencing and relive the same moments of love and affection they once had before. Such a delivery highlighted how one in the same we truly are, a person searching for their other half or a convenient substitute till something better arrives.

Her is sentimental and kind as it projects a clear message, love is something not meant to be understood, just simply felt.

Twinsters

Image via Amazon

A French fashion student and Los Angeles actress come to share their extraordinary story of discovering a twin they never knew existed via the internet. Adopted from South Korea and raised in different continents, Samantha and Anais search for answers in this warming documentary, Twinsters.

Samantha receives a Facebook message from a girl who startling looks just like her, with similar birthdays and backgrounds, this is all that’s needed to begin an investigation that seeks the truth. Are these two twins or is everything just purely coincidence?

Where most documentaries have educational intentions or persuasive narrative, this one showcases a touching reunion that makes the audience feel a part of, ultimately provoking a curious wonder at the life-changing surprises the world has in store. Twinsters is sweet and moving, beaming a message of unconditional love and family as both girls make up for lost time through Skyped calls, insides jokes, and visits from across the world. Their quickly formed bond proves time and distance do nothing to negatively impact a relationship that was always supposed to be there. These girls’ closeness and endearing fondness over the other leaves you overwhelmed with joy at how lucky these two are to have found each other.

This unlikely and incredible miracle is not taken for granted as it provides reflection, who is one after all this? How much of one’s origins are unknown and secret? And the most mind bobbling of them all, how differently would have Samantha and Anais’ lives would have been if they were never separated let alone adopted?

Twinsters is profound. Available to stream on Netflix, I strongly suggest this documentary for an evening with loved ones.