a review of 临渊而立

Wow, I need counseling after viewing Harmonium. What an intense drama. When an old friend is released from prison, a metal craftsman decides to give him a job at his workshop and a place to sleep at his home, to the surprise of the craftsman's wife. Soon, the mutual relations start to change. The performances in Harmonium are very convincing, the story is original, and the subtle, modest film style makes it all the more impressive, as if you're watching the unfolding of real lives. A rare gem. I had a hard time accepting the end, but it completed the emotional development of Harmonium.