34. Nina; movie review

NINA
Cert TBA
130 mins
BBFC advice: TBA

In its publicity blurb, Nina is described as "an unexpected story of feelings, complicated choices and life changes."
I have used these words verbatim because, despite considered thought, I can't sum it up any better.
It does indeed offer surprises from its opening moments and complexities which are presented in a way which allows its audience to understand and empathise.
Olga Chajdas's movie centres on the sexual awakening of Nina - a teacher (Julia Kijowska) who is trying to arrange a surrogate because she and her husband (Andrzej Konopka) cannot have children.
They alight upon an attractive potential candidate in Magda (Eliza Rycembel) after Nina inadvertently backs into her car.
They don't tell her of their plans straightaway but, when they invite her for dinner, the husband has a glad-eye for the attractive young woman.
However, it transpires that she is a lesbian and her free spirit lures Nina to unexpected desires.
The awakening prompted by Magda isn't just sexual although it would be fair to say that Chajdas's film is erotic in parts.
What makes it gripping is the fear of being found out and the dilemma over life choices for both Magda and Nina.
Kijowska hits the mark in the title role - she reflects to a tee how her character goes from being stifled and unfulfilled to discovering a joy which she didn't think was possible.
She also encapsulates the difficulty of following her new road and the self-doubt it engenders.
Meanwhile, Rycembel also convinces as the carefree girl who is suddenly thrust into scenarios which could lead to uncomfortable commitment.
It adds up to a modern drama which isn't easy to predict and, thankfully, doesn't come up with simple resolutions.
I understand it is going to be available on-demand as well as at limited cinema screens.
It is worth staying in to watch it on one of these cold winter nights.

Reasons to watch: A gripping exploration of sexual awakening
Reasons to avoid: It may be too explicit for some

Laughs: None
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 8/10

Did you know? Surrogacy is mostly unregulated in Poland.^[A 2015 news report estimated there are likely dozens of surrogate mothers in Poland.

The final word - Olga Chajdas: "Nina is a contemporary Lady Bovary, so it needed a language that would combine the best tradition, a certain rhythm of storytelling, and a modern, coherent and energetic performance. I hope we succeeded."

Share this post