Match Point (2005)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416320/
Written and Directed by: Woody Allen
Runtime: 124min
Cast: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Scarlett Johansson, Emily Mortimer, Matthew Goode
Genre: Drama/ Romance/ Thriller
Tagline: There are no little secrets.


A perfect movie about the forbidden fruit; combines luck, passion, desire, temptation. Woody Allen proves his directing and writing skills with this film, more powerfully than ever. I’ve seen this movie a long time ago, but now, renewing my impressions about it, I understand perfectly why I considered it my favourite. Chris Wilton becomes the tennis instructor of wealthy Tom Hewitt. He meets Tom’s sister, Chloe who falls in love with him; too bad Chris likes Tom’s fiancée, Nola. He starts an affair, tries to keep both women, but eventually he must choose one of them.

The actors’ performances are notable; the cast is very nicely put together: Scarlett Johansson is a great choice for a sexy, femme fatale (better than Kate Winslet would have been); Jonathan Rhys Meyers has a remarkable sex-appeal; and the two actors playing the siblings, Emily Mortimer and Matthew Goode are appropriate for their nice, but not as much outstanding characters. The movie is filled with desire, temptation; the attraction between Nola and Chris is obvious from the beginning. “Men always seem to wonder”; I think women too. The flirting scenes are exciting, I mean the whole movie has a sexual nature; there’s a scene in the rain which is very expressive. Both Chris and Nola know that they aren’t supposed to get involved with each other, but the attraction is decisive. “Passions are passions, but we’re both very involved with other people.” I find it quite impossible not to be tempted to cheat with such attractive and tempting partners as the character of Nola and Chris are. There also is the question of money or love. Money mostly represented by Chloe, who can offer Chris material satisfaction and social status. Of course, as I previously mentioned, things get out of control and Chris has to make his decision. The plot is cleverly executed; effectively presents complicate ideas about adultery, luck, passion. The importance of luck is mentioned several times during the film. “People are afraid to face how great a part of life is dependent on luck. It’s scary to think so much is out of control.” I find it quite thought-provoking; considering fate an important factor. I find the soundtrack made up of opera unusual for a contemporary movie; but it is not at all bad, dramatizes the movie.

Supposedly it’s the director’s favourite movie of his owns, which is of no surprise to me. It’s an interesting approach, leaves you thinking about a lot of essential stuff. Does lust and desire outweigh morality and fidelity? Does fate really determine our life? I find it possible.