Young Werther
Despite a rocky start, the movie Young Werther manages to redeem itself with a charming dialogue and romantic influence that elevates it from its initial struggles. Directed and written by José Lourenço, this romantic comedy is an interesting adaptation of Johann Wolfgang Goethe’s 1774 novel The Sorrows of Young Werther.
Starring Douglas Booth and Alison Pill, the film tells the story of a passionate young novelist who becomes entangled in an emotional affair with Charlotte, despite her engagement to Albert. As Werther’s world unravels, the characters of Charlotte, Werther, and Albert find themselves caught in a complex web of emotions and evolving relationships.
While the supporting cast features a talented group of actors, including Patrick J. Adams, Amrit Kaur, and Iris Apatow, they lack depth due to the narrative structure and format of the novel. However, the central trio of Werther, Charlotte, and Albert shines, with Pill impressing as an object of affection with agency.
Visually, the film employs a color grade and shallow depth of field, but still manages to create an aesthetically pleasing environment that pays tribute to the period pieces of yesteryear. Aesthetic and linguistic nods to its predecessors, such as the work of Merchant Ivory, are evident throughout the film.
Young Werther ultimately succeeds in capturing the essence of romance novels from centuries past, with an emphasis on the inherent longing present in the genre. Despite its flaws, including a few distracting visual choices and underdeveloped supporting characters, the film has an undeniable charm that is well worth exploring.
Rating: 6/10