The farcical premise of co-writers and co-directors Raphaël Balboni and Ann Sirot’s “The (Ex)perience of Love” is so terrific that it feels like a much bigger letdown when the film isn’t as great. This comedy-drama about complicated human relationships, sexuality, and reproduction has a good sense of European humor coupled with a breezy attitude, but it overstays its welcome with a too-long run time and artsy interludes that grind the storytelling to a halt.
Rémy (Lazare Gousseau) and Sandra (Lucie Debay) are unable to have a child, learning that that they must suffer from “Past Love Syndrome.” In order to be cured, they only have one solution: they have to sleep once again with each and every one of their past lovers. The film finds humor in the obvious conflicts that this causes, including one of the best sight gags ever: a giant spreadsheet calendar that hangs on the couple’s wall for handy scheduling of various infidelities.
The dramatic elements are handled well, especially when Rémy sees that his list of three ex-lovers pales in comparison to Sandra’s sexual catalogue, which reaches mid double digits. Themes of openness, masculinity, doubt, and morality are raised in the process, and the tension in their relationship reaches its most uncomfortable apex as Sandra and Rémy question what they’re doing and with whom they’re doing it.
The writing is perceptive and packed with insight into human romantic and sexual relationships, and the script is aided by natural, authentic performances from the two leads. Gousseau and Debay have an effortless chemistry that holds things together, especially as they engage in casual, nonchalant discussions about sexuality. What slows the film down is that, even at 89 minutes, it feels too long and draggy. This is exacerbated by avant-garde style set pieces of orgies, swimming pools, and animal masks that are unnecessary and just plain weird.
“The (Ex)perience of Love” has a lot going for it, especially as it finds humor in the most awkward and uncomfortable situations. As a whole, though, it just doesn’t come together in a way that could’ve (and should’ve) been great.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 