In a city steeped in history and romance, two strangers find themselves drawn to each other for a fleeting night of connection. This captivating premise forms the crux of Richard Linklater’s Before Sunrise, a film that’s often celebrated as the epitome of romance. Released in 1995, this romantic drama stars Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, who enchant audiences with their undeniable chemistry.
Linklater co-wrote the film with Kim Krizan, inspired by his own experiences of wandering the streets of Philadelphia with a woman one night. It took a painstaking nine-month process to cast Hawke and Delpy in the lead roles, but the wait proved worthwhile. Their dynamic performances bring to life a story that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the magic of a chance encounter.
Following the success of Before Sunrise, Linklater expanded this poignant narrative into a trilogy, resulting in Before Sunset in 2004 and Before Midnight in 2013. Together, these films have come to symbolize love in its various forms, solidifying their place in cinematic history.
Julie Delpy shared insights into her creative involvement during an interview with the Guardian, emphasizing the collaborative spirit behind the writing proces“Richard, Ethan, and I produced the script together… If one of us hated something, it wouldn’t make the film.” This genuine teamwork not only shaped the dialogue but also infused the films with authentic emotional depth.
The critical reception of Before Sunrise speaks volumes. Garnering a perfect 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive 93% audience score, the film has captivated hearts since its release. Critics have hailed it as “utterly charming,” noting that its romance feels natural and unforced. One reviewer remarked on its timeless magic, stating, “There are so many perfect moments in this film; it is hard to list them without excluding others.”
The directing prowess of Linklater has also received acclaim, praised for its seemingly improvised yet structured storytelling. Critics lauded Hawke and Delpy’s performances, describing them as mesmerizing, making it easy to believe in their roles as soulmates bound by a bittersweet clock.
Reflecting on the trilogy years later, Hawke mentioned in a 2022 interview with The Independent how deeply intertwined the films are with his own life. “I can’t look at Before Sunrise now without remembering, so vividly, that time period,” he confessed. This statement highlights how art imitates life, creating a tapestry rich with personal history and emotion.
Fans of the film echo this sentiment, with one viewer exclaiming, “10/10. Richard Linklater found a special energy and aura when creating this masterpiece.” The romantic allure of Before Sunrise continues to resonate, with audiences declaring it the best romance movie of all time.
Another admirer enthused about the chemistry between Hawke and Delpy, stating, “Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy have maybe the best chemistry in a movie I have ever seen; it all feels so natural.” From its stunning locations to its grounded script, the film captures the essence of romance better than any other.
Before Sunrise is available to rent on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video for £3.49