film_grrrl Review of City of Trees

City of Trees (2019)

Pitch Perfect Story of 2 Adults Falling in Love

[10/10 · 26 September 2020]

Heartfelt, with a fine ear for genuine dialogue, there are no unnecessary drama, phony set pieces or Big Speeches here. Nope, there are just two adults you wish you knew and were friends falling in utter love. If only all romance films were this good. Don't let the lack of much back story deter you. It's a brave choice on the part of Swarens (writer) and works brilliantly. We don't need it. We have the Here and Now, and that's the point. And the details are so wonderful, with an ending that is pitch perfect. Sophie (Buckle -- fabulous) wants to attend the high school reunion, to which Ainsley (Swarens -- spectacular, and she also directs) has not been invited. So Sophie says let's skip the reunion, a gift to her sweetheart. But Ainsley knows how important it is to Sophie, and says Let's Go. I'll Be Fun. She signals with a look and wink that it will truly be fun. She'll make sure of it because it's important to Sophie. When Sophie kisses Ainsley, it's a kiss of thanks and genuine love. and the kiss back is You're Welcome, Darling. Could it get better? It does! the head rested on the shoulder as they sit before the fire, the kiss on the forehead. Wow. Kudos to Swarens (star, writer and director). You've created a gem.