Hawaii by Marco Berger © Optimale Enlarge the image: Illustration 1
Sortie DVD : Hawaii by Marco Berger
For his third feature film which he directed alone, the independent Argentinian filmmaker Marco Berger develops a simple story built around the meeting between two men according to a basis which is the essential material of most of his intrigues. As with Rohmer, Marco Berger’s original stories are meticulously constructed with few actors but with inexhaustible reflection on the desire of the other.
Thus, two men who say they are heterosexual will constantly make gestures particularly evocative of their desires for each other without this necessarily corresponding to the right moment of meeting with the other. From then on, the dialogue marked by innuendoes cannot be read by the other and the entire scenario is built on the search for synchronicity of feelings and their affirmations.
Marco Berger here confronts himself more particularly with the differences in social classes which prevent a relationship from forming healthily, on the basis of boss-employee relationships which hardly facilitate a spontaneous romantic relationship, where consent in the requests of the other must constantly be interpreted in terms of everyone’s freedom to say no.
Marco Berger’s direction is as subtle as it is acute in the representation of the desire of the other with actors who deliver interpretations based on dialogues pronounced with an implicit naturalism, while the hindered bodies seem to express desires that do not match words. We must forget the original musical composition which spoils by its presence scenes which are sufficient in themselves in the expression of the tension of the characters.
Hawaii
by Marco Berger
With: Manuel Vignau (Eugenio), Mateo Chiarino (Martín), Luz Palazón (the lady), Antonia De Michelis (the neighbor), Manuel Martínez Sobrado (the brother of Eugenio)
Argentine, 2013.
Duration: 102 mins
Theatrical release (France): unpublished
French release of the DVD: November 11, 2020
Format: 1.78 – Color
Language: Spanish – Subtitles: French.
Editor: Optimal
Tropical background not only provides a visually stunning backdrop but also enhances the themes of isolation and longing experienced by the characters. The serene yet sometimes oppressive environment mirrors the internal struggles of the protagonists, making it essential to the narrative. While the story could theoretically take place elsewhere, the specificity of the location amplifies the emotional stakes and adds layers to the characters’ experiences, making their journey all the more poignant. The contrast between the idyllic scenery and the turmoil of desire and repression creates a rich atmosphere that invites viewers to immerse themselves fully in the film’s exploration of personal and societal conflicts.
Interview with Guest 1:
1. As a film critic, how do you think Marco Berger’s direction has handled the representation of desire and tension in “Hawaii”? What makes this film unique in its approach to the subject of homosexuality and the barriers it faces in contemporary society?
Response: As a film critic, I believe Marco Berger’s direction in “Hawaii” is remarkable. He has managed to convey the complexities of desire and tension with subtlety and nuance, creating a visually stunning film that captures the essence of unrequited love. The film stands out in its approach to the subject of homosexuality by presenting it as a natural human experience rather than something sensational or shocking. It highlights the social barriers that prevent individuals from exploring their sexuality freely, particularly in the context of power dynamics and class differences. The story is relatable to anyone who has ever experienced unrequited love or felt trapped by societal norms.
2. How does the film delve into the themes of consent and power dynamics within same-sex relationships? Do you think these themes are often overlooked in contemporary LGBTQ+ cinema, and if so, why?
The film explores the theme of consent in a refreshingly honest way, particularly in the context of the boss-employee relationship between Eugenio and Martín. It shows how the power dynamic can cloud judgment and lead to misunderstandings, making it difficult for individuals to express their true feelings. This is an issue that isn’t often addressed in mainstream LGBTQ+ cinema, which often perpetuates harmful stereotypes of predatory behavior. By exploring these themes, the film challenges viewers to reevaluate their preconceived notions about same-sex relationships and promotes healthy communication and consent.
Interview with Guest 2:
3. As someone who has worked on set design for films before, how do you think the setting of “Hawaii” contributes to the overall atmosphere and mood of the story? Could it have been set in any other location, or is the tropical background essential to the film’s narrative?
The setting of “Hawaii” is an integral part of the story. The
