flatastic

13/17

A gay writer and his psychiatric nurse bond over a series of doctor-appointed “dates” as he tells the story of a friendship that spirals out of control when they seek a risky procedure to heal their feelings for each other. “Lilies Not for Me” directed by the talented Will Seefried made a sensational debut at the Edinburgh Film Festival on August 16, 2024. This fascinating film, an in-depth exploration of the queer community’s experience in the early 1900s, left an indelible mark on my memory and the hearts of others who were lucky enough to see it. A poignant narration, a brilliant performance by the actors and an evocative director. From the very beginning of the film, Seefried masterfully draws the audience into the world of Owen, a complex and understandable main character, whose path of self-acceptance is inspiring. The film’s narrative is beautifully woven, presenting the struggle of the queer experience in the early 1900s with an authenticity that resonates deeply. The director’s ability to capture the nuances of the emotional experiences of Owen, Philip and Charlie is nothing short of brilliant, demonstrating his keen understanding of the human condition. The actors were perfectly cast for their roles and the chemistry and emotions were breathtaking. The cinematography is breathtaking, each frame carefully composed to enhance the emotional depth of the story. The use of the natural world and carefully selected color palettes creates a visually stunning backdrop. One of the film’s strengths lies in its script, which balances moments of intense emotion and thrilling horror with moments of joy and light. The dialogues are sharp and historically accurate, they convey the essence of human interactions and the inner dialogues that we often have with ourselves. The music of the film is another bright moment that perfectly complements the emotional rhythms of the narrative. At times the story left me breathless and my heart pounding. It adds an extra layer of depth to the film, making certain walls particularly memorable. Will Seefried’s direction is far-sighted, he guides the audience through history with a deft hand. His ability to elicit such powerful performances from his actors, combined with his keen eye for detail, sets him apart as a director to watch in the coming years. Seefried’s understanding of pacing ensures that the film remains engaging throughout, with each scene building on the previous, creating a coherent and compelling narrative. “Lilies are not for me” is a triumph of modern film production – fascinating, shocking, unforgettable. 10/10.

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