On Feb. 5, Netflix released a film titled “Malcolm and Marie.” The movie is displayed in black and white which allows the audience to focus on key elements of the production without any distractions. “Malcolm and Marie” is centered around two African American individuals who are in a dysfunctional relationship.
Malcolm is a filmmaker on the borderline of success, while Marie is his significant other who happens to be his muse and the reasoning behind his successful career. Throughout the film, the couple faces many trials in regards to the meaning of their relationship.
Malcolm and Marie’s conversation includes highly diminishing words and negative verbal barbs. They both misunderstand each other in multiple ways by choosing to dismiss each other’s point of view and not recognizing that they both have feelings.
Personally, I feel as though the dismissive behavior they display towards one another is ineffective. In order to have a flourishing relationship, you have to properly communicate. Communication is key. As I watched the film I experienced a variety of emotions. My thoughts became scattered in an unrecognizable way. I honestly did not know how to feel.
The way the film was written allowed the audience to see many perspectives and take note of what not to do when encountering unhealthy situations. However, I understood that emotional exploration was the ultimate topic of discussion. Being in touch with your emotional well-being, and then applying that awareness towards the relationship. Besides the inconsistencies between the couple, the cinematic aspect captured my attention as well.
The use of lighting, angles, and zooming of the camera creates a striking effect. An effect that allows insight into the brokenness of the characters. Zooming in on the face of a specific character initiates an up close and personal appeal. Which makes room for relatable reactions from the viewers.
Overall, the film was very powerful. It was extremely eye-opening and emotional. The script was compelling and heavily dialogue-centered. I was educated after watching the movie, due to the high volumes of factual information mentioned. I liked how Malcolm was able to bring up the hardships black filmmakers go through.
There are some things I would change due to my dislike of them. If the environment of the film was altered or completely changed it would offer a different perspective in a positive way. With the movie taking place in one central area, it does not propose dimension.
Moving Malcolm and Marie to multiple locations would allow the audience an insight into how they would act in the public’s eye.
Changing the lighting as well would give the movie a new personality. The mood could possibly be enlightened if the lighting was better, and not in black and white.
Despite the scenery, everyone should watch this film. It definitely will make you think twice about your own relationship, as well as how you respond to people. Malcolm and Marie offer many things both negative and positive, however, many people may disagree.
Jennifer Mangham
Reporter