A high-tech shut-in finds love in an unexpected place in this satirical comedy. Thomas (voice of Benoit Verhaert) is a profoundly agoraphobic 33-year-old man whose condition prevents him from leaving his apartment or allowing others in to visit. Fortunately for him, he rarely needs to do either; Thomas has been declared officially disabled, making him eligible for government services for the handicapped; he's also well-insured and has a claims representative (Alexandre von Sivers) ready to meet
his every need. Thomas also has a high-tech "vision-phone" that allows him to communicate with the outside world without having to make actual contact. While Thomas' psychologist (Frederic Topart) tries to sort out his mental state, his insurance representative offers to help with his more personal needs: it seems the government provides prostitutes for the disabled, and Thomas is now eligible. Thomas speaks by phone with Eva (Aylin Yay), a State-funded call girl, and soon finds himself smitten -- so much so that he begins to ponder actually leaving his room. Meanwhile, the psychologist has registered Thomas with a phone-dating service as a more healthy alternative, subjecting Thomas to the not entirely welcome attentions of Melodie (Magali Pinglaut). Thomas Est Amoureux was shot on video entirely in "first person," with the viewer seeing only what Thomas himself would see through his "vision-phone." ~ Mark Deming, Rovi
A film in which the camera's point of view never changes can start to feel claustrophobic. But the originality of the concept and the quality of the performances help to compensate.
While that leads to a conclusion that seems straight out of a student film, Renders does effectively create a sense of claustrophobia by plunking his audience down in the middle of Thomas' world.
For a film that takes place entirely within the confines of the main character's computer screen, the Belgian Thomas in Love is amazingly interesting stuff.
Thomas in Love touches on so many subjects and is so visually interesting to watch that it won't just enrich your weekend movie plans, but stimulate your way of thinking as well.
The film title and the cover may seem awkward. But this picture is much more than just a character in love. The ways in which the film is presented is unique. Although we never see the main character, we can feel his emotions through his words and his eyes. I strongly recommend this film to people who want to
experience a different style of filmmaking.
October 28, 2009
Linda K. T.
Super Reviewer
Only seen it once, and it is simply astonishing, the shooting is great and the movie is a trip, if you ever come across this movie, take the time to watch it, you'll thank me later
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