Julie + Ethan + Richard + Paris = “Ooh La La”

There aren’t many movies made that can have a sequel a decade later and have the second offer stand-up to the original (much less a story about love and relationships). Off the tippy-top of our heads, we can think of Le Déclin de L'empire Américain /Les Invasions Barbares. But Austin filmmaker Richard Linklater did just that with the two beautiful films, Before Sunrise & Before Sunset. The two movies represent some of the best romantic realism we have ever seen on film. And, of course, they remind us of living in Europe, hastily jumping on overnight trains bound for Paris, if only to spend just 12 more hours with the woman with whom we were certain we'd spend the rest of our lives. Or passing strangers along the Seine, making the briefest of eye contact and then spending the next four hours wistfully concocting our life’s greatest love story.

They also represent the problems of love, the problems of life, the problems of faith and trust. The beauty and ache of the world. The actors seems so committed to their roles you almost feel as if you are not even watching a movie. We also love the very palpable feeling of collaboration in these movies. And, having watched the DVD extras of Before Sunset, we have come to appreciate even more the time and patience and thought that went into each line, with both the actors and director helping to form the film, shot by shot and word by word.

Well, if you are like us, that is to say near-sappy romantics who love great movies, then you are in luck. Because the Paramount is screening both films back-to-back this evening. So find that special someone, or be a real romantic trooper like us and go alone. You will be glad you did. Even if it hurts just a little. We dare you not to get a little misty when Julie Delpy plays her song at the end of Before Sunset. After the movie we suggest getting an espresso, firing up a cigarette and taking a walk along the Congress Ave. or Lamar Pedestrian Bridge. It will almost feel like being in Paris. Almost.

And as an added suggestion, if you really want to feel in the mood, go home after the movie and listen to Carla Bruni and drink some wine. We want to weep just thinking about it.

Before Sunrise/Before Sunset
The Paramount
7pm & 9:15pm

*Both movies will be shown again on Sunday at 1pm & 3:15pm.*