Director Andrew Haigh’s film All of Us Strangers demonstrates why some stories lend themselves to the medium more so than others. In this one, screenwriter Adam (Andrew Scott), in living in a near-empty tower block in contemporary London, and is propositioned by his mysterious -and only -neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal). Adam initially rejects the chance to hang out with Harry, but it sends him into his past to help with his screenplay. Adam is drawn to his childhood home, where he discovers that his long-dead parents (played by Jamie Bell and Claire Foy) are both living and look the same age as the day they died over 30 years ago.
It’s this exploration of time lost and regret that really makes for an innovative style. What if you could speak to your parents 30 years after they died? Adam missed out on the good times and the bad – and here, he finds himself able to have those conversations. The film keeps it unclear as to whether we are in Adam’s head, or if he’s actually interacting with them. The performances are powerful, and the conversations incredible, vulnerable, and moving.
It’s revealed that Adam’s kept isolated since their tragic death, and the reintroduction to them starts to untangle the knot in his heart. This allows him to explore a loving relationship with Harry. Their first sexual encounter is clearly making Adam far more uncomfortable than one may think it should. He seems uncertain about how to react, and where to put his hands. Yet, there is a clear chemistry and attraction between the two men. Both Mescal and Scott give powerful performances that are subtle and quiet, yet revealing.
The production design and cinematography are undeniable here as well. Adam is revisiting his childhood home, and his parents are essentially stuck in their time. There is a mixture of styles ranging from the 80s to modern times and more from adult Adam dressing more like a kid in the 80s. All these details are presented in frequent close-ups as we lock into the emotions of the characters.
There are some big swings in the story in All of Us Strangers that may not connect with all audiences. However, it feels very inventive while playing on the audience’s uncertainty of what they’re witnessing. The film will tie up all of the loose ends (while also shattering many audiences). It’s a powerful film emotionally while being somber at the same time.
All of Us Strangers will be in theaters on December 22.
Rating: Must See
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