Cast
View All
Laia Costa
as Elena Aldana
Josh O'Connor
as Jake
Lisa McGrillis
as Carly
Stuart Martin
as Shane
Peter Wight
as Andrew
Sarkis Ninos
as Officer Hernandez
Orion Lee
as Eddie
Bobby Rainsbury
as Zoe
Daniel Campbell
as Glynne
Isabelle Barth
as Rose
Gregor Firth
as Connor
Kevin O'Loughlin
as Mark
Natalie Arle-Toyne
as Siobhan
Robbie Hutton
as James
Kirsty Strain
as Work Friend
Crew
Director
- Harry Wootliff
Writer
- Harry Wootliff
- Matthieu de Braconier
Producer
- Tristan Goligher
- Claire Mundell
- Matthieu de Braconier
- Rachel Dargavel
Reviews
SWITCH.
‘Only You’ is a very emotional tale about a topic that isn’t talked about a lot on film, aided by great performances with fantastic chemistry.
- Chris dos Santos
Read Chris' full article...
https://www.maketheswitch.com.au/article/review-only-you-a-romantic-film-thats-not-afraid-to-get-real
Head to https://www.maketheswitch.com.au/sff for more Sydney Film Festival reviews.
May 30, 2019
CinemaSerf
Whilst there is something poignantly touching about the subject matter here, it's all rather washed away in a fairly pedestrian melodrama. It's very early on New Year's Day in Glasgow and "Elena" (Laia Costa) has left a party looking for a taxi. When she does see one, it's already been flagged down by "Jake" (Josh O'Connor) who despite her rudeness offers her a lift. That's the start of a burgeoning relationship, egged on by a little Elvis Costello, and soon they are full of the joys of spring - of the seasonal and mattress variety. They decide that they want to have a bairn to make their family complete, but even working through the entire pop-up version of the Kamasutra that just isn't happening. A trip to the doctor presents a few unwelcome home truths - not least that she is in her mid-30s and conceiving might be a little harder. The fun that have had trying now becomes a more perfunctory procedure, before the story embarks on the serious purpose of the plot - the stresses and strains put on a relationship by IVF. Tantrums galore now ensue as both struggle to deal with exasperation and frustration. Their hitherto affection now faces a series of challenges that challenges the fabric of their relatively new relationship and brings into sharp focus the almost ten year age gap between the pair. Any of us who know people who have used this fertility treatment will know just how tough it can be - with no guaranteed results, so both characters here are aiming at an open goal on the sympathy front. It's just that it quickly enters the realms of what can go wrong will. Their rows appear more contrived. Not so much hormonally driven frustrations, more ones from an auteur who was a little unsure of his footing. The acting is adequate and it does shine a light on the ghastliness and unpredictability of something quite so visceral for both, but it's all a little too unfocussed as it develops. It's worth a watch, just a bit disappointing.
Jun 22, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Only You examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Harry Wootliff brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Only You took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 179 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 920 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Only You shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Julie & Julia, which focuses more on action than character development, Only You offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Holiday Affair and Viva explore similar territory, Only You stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 12, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 59m
Where to Watch
