Watch Closer than it seems to

Closer is an emotionally charged drama from director Mike Nichols, based on a play by Patrick Marber. The film explores the complex relationships between four individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of lust, love and betrayal on the streets of London. The story begins with a chance encounter between obituary writer Dan (Jude Law) and New York photographer Alice (Natalie Portman) whose connection is instantaneous. As they begin their relationship, they find themselves entangled with dermatologist Larry (Clive Owen), and exotic dancer Anna (Julia Roberts) in a romantic web of affairs and deception.

What first appears to be a series of separate relationships gradually becomes a complex intertwinement of emotions, as each character's connection to another deepens over time. The film's intermingling narrative portrays how the characters navigate the intricate emotional bonds between them, with doubts, secrets, and treachery frequently on the table.

Closer is a movie about how people use their sexuality to form or disintegrate relationships. Characters fall in and out of love frequently throughout the film, with each betrayal or deception causing a ripple effect throughout the intertwined narrative, highlighted by the intensity of the performances.

Closer's standout cast is a masterclass in character-driven drama, with each actor bringing their A-game to deliver a truly captivating performance. The early stages of the film rely heavily on Jude Law and Natalie Portman, whose overwhelming chemistry sets the stage for the subsequent events.

As the story unfolds, the performances of Clive Owen and Julia Roberts keep the tension and emotion high, as their characters' motivations and desires become more complex. The film tackles difficult and weighty topics, but the incredible performances bring heart, soul, and humanity to the subject matter.

The movie's color palette is subdued to match the London landscapes, favoring dark, gray tones that subtly reinforce the movie's themes. This color choice also serves to accentuate the brilliance of Julia Roberts' character, who frequently wears bright, eye-catching jewelry or clothing.

The film is enhanced by its soundtrack, which features haunting and emotional melodies that both complement and amplify the tension and emotional highs and lows of the film. While the individual tracks are discreetly woven into the movie, they’re an integral part of the entire movie experience.

Closer is a movie that borders on the divisive. On the one hand, it’s a complex, challenging film with a poignant tale about the flawed lives of its characters. On the other hand, those deep and complicated lives can be overwhelming for some viewers. The film’s depiction of its themes is unflinching, and it isn't afraid to push its audience to confront some of the more difficult aspects of relationships, such as infidelity and lies, as well as the joys of love and the plethora of emotions that come with it.

In conclusion, Closer from director Mike Nichols with an all-star cast is a heart-wrenching examination of love, lust, and the intricate relationships formed around them. Replete with mature themes and outstanding performances, it is an inspired and thought-provoking film that showcases humanity's vulnerable nature.

Closer than it seems to is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes.