There are films in which relationships involve tension, confusion, and dishonesty. Then there are films where one’s desire may have irreparable effects. Director Ira Sachs delivers a brilliant and well-crafted drama that is surreal in its humanity.  In Passages, a man’s relationship is tested by sleeping with someone else. Passages was originally rated NC-17, but then was changed to Unrated. This was probably the best rating it could have received, because otherwise the film would not receive the recognition it truly deserves. The movie is a stylized ride of boundaries, which is seductively invigorating.

The film takes place in France and focuses on a gay married couple, Tomas and Martin (played by Franz Rogowski and Ben Whishaw). Tomas is a film director always striving for a successful project. When Tomas experiences mixed expectations of his own progress along with being bored by Martin’s enthusiasm, his attractions begin to shift. He meets Agathe (played by Adele Exarchopoulos), who is a schoolteacher and a colleague of Tomas. Tomas and Agathe begin having a relationship which consists mostly of meeting up to socialize and hook-up. Tomas is open with Martin about the fact that he is seeing a woman, but that causes the tension between the two men to boil. Is Tomas truly in love with Agathe? Does Tomas still have feelings for Martin? Is Martin feeling different about who he truly loves as well? The film is a sexy ride that mirrors reality.  Passages adds fuel to the emotional fire that thrives on the film’s conflict which is caused by lust, confusion, and jealousy.

The concept of separation speaks strongly in the film. The film’s writing is strong in exploring that it appears there is no easy door of departure for Tomas, Martin, or Agathe. However, there is still some strange connection between the three characters.  Martin’s personality helps the film to find calm in spite of the harsh situation that Tomas has created. Ben Whishaw who plays Martin does a fine job portraying an introverted, artistic nerd.  His role as the one dealing with frustrations fits the dismissive side of his character. Also, the part of Franz Rogowski as Tomas effectively displays his character’s boredom. The layers of solitude and quiet help the film’s tensions slowly boil, and then there are moments where tensions explode in upsetting scenes. There are no easy roads in Passages. There are only paths in which problems must be dealt with for the sake of Tomas and Martin, and for the sake of Tomas and Agathe. Who is the happy couple? In the end, happiness depends upon the truth and Passages will make its viewers want the truth.

This film is a unique, artistic revelation. Passages is faithful in portraying how humans want to go with their gut and how humans take risks which impact everyone in their lives. The risks Tomas takes impact the feelings of Martin. Is there a place where their hearts truly lie? Find out in Passages. Four out of four stars.