A Poignant Sonata of Love Resonates for Two Souls Bound by Forbidden Desire

Director Patrice Leconte, who masterfully projects the delicate emotions that arise between lovers onto the screen with a touch of fetishism, returns with 'A Promise.' This adult tale of pure love, reminiscent of his earlier works such as 'The Hairdresser's Husband,' 'The Tailor of Panama,' and 'Confidences,' marks a return to his roots.

This film is an adaptation of a short story by author Stefan Zweig, who also served as the inspiration for Wes Anderson's'The Grand Budapest Hotel.'Leconte ambitiously tackles Zweig's timeless question: 'Can the desires of lovers, drawn to each other across time, overcome the passage of years?'

The story unfolds in 1912 Germany. Friedrich, a young, talented, and handsome man, arrives at the mansion of the middle-aged industrialist Hoffmeister as his secretary. Though aware of their forbidden attraction, Hoffmeister's young wife, Lotte, and Friedrich find themselves increasingly drawn to each other, their unspoken longing growing as they are unable to touch or even express their love.

Separated by Friedrich's sudden transfer, he and Lotte finally confess their true feelings to each other, promising to remain faithful until their reunion. However, the outbreak of World War I soon after dramatically alters their fate.—.



Rebecca Hall, known for 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona,' plays Lotte, a woman blessed with a wealthy, kind husband and child, yet haunted by a deep inner loneliness and sense of loss. Alan Rickman, familiar from the 'Harry Potter' series, embodies the industrialist Hoffmeister with a nuanced performance, while Richard Madden, exuding a wild charm, portrays the poor yet intelligent young man Friedrich, tormented by intense passion.

Particularly memorable are the serene melodies composed by Gabriel Yared. Alongside Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, 'Pathétique,' which Lotte plays in the film, these sweet and poignant tunes create a profound resonance.

Furthermore, the opulent costumes and luxurious furnishings, recreating the glamorous life of high society in the early 1900s, lend a sense of gravitas to the screen. Guerlain's 'L'Heure Bleue' perfume, worn by the young wife Lotte, adds a touch of color to the unfolding of their love.

Patrice Leconte's 'A Promise' chronicles eight years of 'pure love' for a man and woman tossed about by the waves of a turbulent era, depicted with noble sensuality. One can be captivated by the eroticism of their gazes, exchanged silently time and again.



'A Promise'
Opens December 20th (Saturday) at Cine Switch Ginza and nationwide.
Director: Patrice Leconte
Starring: Rebecca Hall, Alan Rickman, Richard Madden
Based on the novel by: Stefan Zweig
Distribution: Comstock Group
2014 / France-Belgium / 98 min / Original Title: A Promise
http://www.kure-ai.com/

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