Now streaming on virtual platforms, Hold Me, Softly is a restrained romance film that captures the art of the slow burn. Co-directors Ina Tiernan Bailey and Carlos Berber create an intimate environment where the success of the film hinges on solid performances from lead actors. Making its World Premiere at the La Femme International Film Festival, Hold Me, Softly is a solid attempt at an emotionally dense drama. However, the result feels in need of energetic resuscitation.

Shattering the Monotony of an Isolated Existence

The film opens with a young woman named Snow (Jasmine Berber) who sits disoriented on the side of the road. A police officer makes contact with her, asking if she needs assistance. Their conversation takes place over the course of an impressive one-take, which sets the film up for future slow pacing. Melancholy piano music swells as we then see Snow in her home environment. Clearly depressed and mourning the loss of her marriage, Snow struggles to find joy in daily life. Then, like a sudden spark of lightning, she notices the new neighbor who has moved in across the street. Calvin (Andrei Kogolenok) is a conventionally attractive man around her age, and it’s not long before the two strike up a conversation.

Watch the Hold Me, Softly trailer here.

Snow opens up to Calvin almost immediately, and he reciprocates the vulnerability. His calming presence quells Snow’s anxiety and offers her the courage to break free from her self-imposed isolation. It’s alluded to that Snow’s former relationship shattered her confidence and self-esteem. Despite being a gifted video game artist, she now doubts herself and her abilities. Meeting and connecting with Calvin is therapeutic for Snow, but she has expectations he cannot fulfill, and when he can’t show up for her in the way that she needs, Snow must learn to find solace on her own.

Portrayed Through a Romantic Lens, Technical Issues Aside

Visually, the production has an airbrushed quality that feels nostalgic of soap operas from the 1990s. Portraying the film in this style makes sense, as this is a romance film after all. That said, there are some obvious technical issues. Most notable is the sound mix and ADR, which can be quite distracting. In an outdoor scene, for example, Snow and Calvin’s voices create a distinct echo, making it obvious that this dialogue was re-recorded in a separate room and later edited into the scene. These types of inconsistencies, unfortunately, pull the viewer out of the world of the film and into the reality of the filmmaking process.

Takeaway

Hold Me, Softly has a delicate quality that, while heartfelt, ultimately never quite gets off the ground. However, those who gravitate toward films that are simpler and character-driven rather than technically savvy can still find much to admire in Hold Me, Softly.