My Rating: 3.87/4 (aka Great watch)
One line summary: A famous actress and her assistant navigate their lives and their own relationship while preparing for a play.
The Deets: You probably haven’t heard of this film, made by Olivier Assayas, and starring the renowned Juliette Binoche and a fantastic Kristen Stewart. And I must say that a title does matter – this movie takes place in a real place called Sils Maria (in Switzerland) and its stunning natural beauty and mysterious clouds lay the foundation for this mesmerizing and enigmatic story. You don’t really know what to expect when it opens, with the duo traveling by train to an event; but as the narrative unfolds and blossoms its layers of depth, you realize the themes that have slowly emerged – of self-confidence, fame, the subjectivity of art, muses, and how we mature through our lives. It is a stunning movie, pensive and also always moving ahead, just as the clouds float through the valley.
Perfect for: If you are in the mood for a beautiful and intellectually stimulating experience, and especially if you love to watch Binoche or Kristen Stewart on screen.
Where to watch: You’ll need to get it through MUBI, AMC, or Paramount (maybe just for a free trial).
Food pairing: With a French / Swiss sensibility, you could do a delightful snack of baguette with some emmental cheese. You won’t be disappointed.

