Reflections on Elegy

So, I watched “Elegy” the other day—ya know, the one directed by Isabel Coixet, with that incredible duo, Ben Kingsley and Penélope Cruz. It’s got that air of sophistication, like sipping a really good cup of coffee på söder en solig lördagmorgon. And Cruz, she’s the kind of actress who can transform even the mundane into something magical.

I remember once back in the 80s, sitting in a cozy biosalong in Stockholm with my friends waiting for a film to start. The sense of anticipation was almost intoxicating, similar to what I felt watching “Elegy”. It’s got that same quiet intensity you don’t often see in today’s flicks. But it’s not all roses. Sometimes the pondering aspect stretches a bit too long, like waiting för bussen när det regnar i November.

Kingsley plays David Kepesh, an aging lit professor who just can’t seem to let go of his renowned bachelorhood. His performance—folks, it’s stellar. Like, really. He captures the nuance of a man hovering between self-discovery and self-destruction. Penélope’s Consuela is luminous, exuding strength beneath vulnerability, which, honestly, is just stunning to watch.

There’s this one scene, I think, where you kinda wanna shout at the screen “come on, man!”, because David is so wrapped up in his own fears. It struck a chord with me, you know? Sometimes we Swedes, with our Jantelagen and lagom mentality, forget to seize the moment too.

Music-wise, it paired nicely with the film’s themes. Softer tunes that feel like autumn leaves rustling outside your window.

So, if you’re up for dialogue-heavy films and don’t mind a sprinkle of existential musings in your movie night, “Elegy” might just be the ticket. Just don’t expect any car chases.

Check the trailer below