Sometimes we leave everything to find ourselves.|Nov. 19, 2008|United States | France|110 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;Romance
Description: Two Lovers (2008) is a compelling drama that explores the complexities of love and human relationships. The story centers around Leonard Kraditor (Joaquin Phoenix), who attempts suicide by jumping off a bridge in Brooklyn. However, he changes his mind and returns home to his parents’ apartment. His mother, Ruth (Isabella Rossellini), realizes it’s not his first attempt and expresses her concern to her husband, Reuben. That evening, Leonard’s parents invite a potential business partner and his family for dinner, hoping to set him up with their daughter, Sandra Cohen (Vinessa Shaw).
During their encounter, Sandra notices a photograph of a girl above Leonard’s bed and asks about it. Leonard explains that he was engaged to the woman for several years, but their relationship ended when they discovered they both carried the gene for Tay–Sachs disease, a condition that severely affects children’s health. Meanwhile, Leonard becomes infatuated with a new neighbor, Michelle Rausch (Gwyneth Paltrow), despite her struggles with addiction and her involvement with a married man, Ronald Blatt (Elias Koteas). Leonard agrees to meet Michelle and Ronald for dinner, but the evening leaves him feeling rejected after they leave him to attend an opera.
Later, Sandra visits Leonard, believing he wanted her to come over. Realizing it was a setup by his parents, she apologizes but confidently states that many other men are interested in her if he isn’t. Leonard admits he likes her, leading to a relationship that grows deeper over time. The film delicately portrays Leonard’s emotional journey as he navigates his feelings for both women and grapples with his own inner struggles.
Cast director: James Gray
Cast actor: Joaquin Phoenix, Gwyneth Paltrow, Vinessa Shaw, Isabella Rossellini, Moni Moshonov, Elias Koteas, Bob Ari, David Ross, Anne Joyce, Elliot Villar
Original name: Two Lovers