Review for ‘‘loose.’’ by Antonis Christ

"Loose," directed by Antonis Christ, is a film that doesn't simply ask to be watched—it demands to be felt.

Visual storytelling is one of its defining features. Christ’s background as an experimental director is on full display here, using cinematography as a language of its own. The shots are carefully constructed, each frame feeling like a piece of art in itself. The film’s use of chiaroscuro—strong contrasts between light and dark—gives it a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic, enhancing the emotional gravity of each scene. This visual approach brings to mind the work of classic filmmakers like Carl Theodor Dreyer and Ingmar Bergman.

The film’s pacing, especially in its first half, contributes significantly to the tension. The deliberate, methodical progression draws the audience into the protagonist’s confusion and inner turmoil. One of the film’s greatest strengths is its editing. Each cut feels purposeful, not just to transition between scenes but to shift the emotional weight of the narrative.

Sound is not just a background element here but a vital part of the atmosphere. Combined with the film’s impactful visual effects, the sound helps establish a world that feels as disjointed and unpredictable as the emotions running through the lead character.

Thematically, it explores complex ideas surrounding human relationships, identity, and the need for connection. It’s a film that resists easy answers, encouraging the viewer to wrestle with their own interpretations of the characters' interactions and internal struggles.

While the second half may feel more disjointed and harder to follow, it could be argued that this is precisely where "Loose" finds its power. The film moves away from linear storytelling and embraces a more fluid, emotional narrative.

Ultimately, it feels more like an extended art installation than a conventional film. Its abstract narrative, stunning visuals, and experimental structure make it a piece of modern cinema that would feel perfectly at home in a contemporary art museum.