I was lucky enough to receive tickets to a preview of Tom Ford’s first film and I went into the screening without a very clear idea on what the plot would be. I’ll admit the narrative wasn’t exactly what I was expecting but I’m very happy to say that I really enjoyed it. It’s odd that I would really enjoy watching what is inherently a depressing film but to tell the truth, the film is so beautifully made that I spent most of it in awe. That, and I’ve been a Colin Firth fan ever since the BBC Pride and Prejudice mini-series.

The plot centres on a day in the life of George Falconer (Firth), a British English professor in LA, as he attempts to deal with the death of his partner, Jim, by setting his affairs in order and preparing to commit suicide. As I said earlier, the premise of the film is quite depressing but Firth and Julianne Moore, as his best friend who wishes she could be with George, are brilliantly emotive. Visually, the film is quite beautiful and while I expected the costumes to be stunning (under Tom Ford’s direction), I didn’t expect to be so blown away by the cinematography.

If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier but brilliantly acted and beautifully filmed, I’d definitely recommend this one.

Rating: ***