Wicker Park (2004)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0324554/
Director: Paul McGuigan / Script: Gilles Mimouni & Brandon Boyce
Runtime: 114min
Cast: Josh Hartnett, Diane Kruger, Rose Byrne, Matthew Lillard Genre: Drama / Romance / Mystery
Tagline: Passion never dies.


It is the remake of the 1996 movie “L’Appartement”. I have watched Wicker Park first, and after the original which was a big disappointment to me; I simply couldn’t understand why anyone should praise the French film, when the remake is better in every way. The original was a bit blurry to me, even if I already knew the storyline and the ending completely infuriated me. Though the story, except the ending, is mostly the same, Wicker Park is a hundred times better executed; for me, the original doesn’t even come close to it.

The movie presents Matthew, who thinks he sees his former passion, Lisa, who walked out on him without a word two years ago. We get insight into their wonderful love affair through Matthew’s flashbacks. Details about their relationship unfold little by little. He gives up his business trip and lies to his fiancé, in order to find Lisa and require an explanation for her departure. He encounters a friend, Luke who will help him reveal the mystery. Matthew searches for clues to track down Lisa, who he still is obsessed about, but instead of her, he meets another woman with the same name; things aren’t what they seem to be. I cannot give away more details, in fear of ruining the impact of the movie. Gradually, the mystery unfolds with the shocking truth; little, seemingly insignificant details are explained and pieces are astonishingly put together like a puzzle. It really keeps you on the edge of your seat, with eyes wide open. Unusual coincidences increase pressure and excitement. The plot is complex. Points of view change, flashbacks are nicely edited. The soundtrack is appropriately put together; many songs matching quite extraordinarily the mood and situation. There is a recurrent melody, which I related to Lisa. The acting is outstanding; Josh Hartnett is superb(ly cute), Diane Kruger is lovely, and they immediately attract sympathy.

All I can say is that this movie can be an unforgettable experience for anyone who has ever been in love. It isn’t an ordinary love story, it stimulates emotions. Passion, romance, excitement, mystery mingle in the film. It instantly got on the top of my list. During the movie I felt curiosity, surprise, anger, and I was also deeply touched (I think I cried). I did not feel any compassion, only anger for the villain, though I think some people did/will. Passion never dies, indeed.