In the Mood For Love/2046

In the Mood For Love/2046 (Wong Kar-Wai, 2001, 2005) [10]
I feel it's best to review these two films together, not just because they are loosely related but becuase they have the same form and occupy a certain space. Both of these are right in my wheelhouse when it comes what I like. These are two of the most visually stunning films I've seen outside of Terrence Malick. That alone makes it hard to give any less than a ten. But the strength of these films comes not just from the visuals, but how they are used in a form to suit each film. I love how Wong plays with the speed of the frame, creating an emphasis on studying the images. Both films center around the character of Mr. Chow, who is two distinct characters in each film. Each film, however deals with Chow's relationships with women, in the first, with quiet longing, and in the second as a dashing playboy. Through each film we get the feeling that Chow is doomed to repeat the same situation in each relationship, and that what woman he is with is never that important. The women in 2046 come and go and that's the way it is. Chow ends up the same as In the Mood for Love, alone. With these two films, Wong Kar-Wai has proven to be a master of the fleeting love story from a male perspective. Plus, he is a master craftsman at creating some beautiful images.