Written and directed by Stéphanie Chuat and Véronique Reymond, Lisa has bid goodbye to her ambitions as a playwright and the Berlin arts scene and now lives in Switzerland with her husband, who runs an international school. When her twin brother falls ill, she returns to Berlin. Starring: Nina Hoss, Lars Eidinger, Marthe Keller, Jens Albinus and Thomas Ostermeier.
You can never go wrong with casting Nina Hoss in an intensely emotional and vulnerable role, she simply has a natural intensity which is a delight to watch. Lisa’s (Hoss) sheer denial of David’s (Eidinger) ultimate fate is so sincere that at times it’s hard to watch. Pairing Hoss with Lars Eidinger is another great piece of casting, the role asks for a deeply hurt and physically drained performance which he brings in a heart-breaking manner. Again, it’s another aspect of the film that works so well, it’s not an easy sight to watch unfold, both roles are emotionally complex but both actors are more than skilled enough for that challenge. The two of them are easily convincing as twins with a natural connection to portray the profound bond between them.
Stéphanie Chuat and Véronique Reymond have a directorial style which conveys the thoughtful, meaningful atmosphere while bringing through a sharpness with a strong clarity to its aesthetic. For a story filled with such sadness, its style reflects more a natural beauty and lightness. There’s some fantastic shots of the mountains but even in its cityscapes it captures a bright, crisp look. It embraces the air of affluence and creativity to its characters, bringing an extra level of detail to its locations.
The story is one that’s familiar, love, loss, family and marriage but Chuat and Reymond bring a strong personality to keep things fresh. The emotions are strong but brought through subtly, they build gradually as the story intensifies to make the finale all the more impactful. It’s a moving story, one that draws you in with the charming nature of its characters then starts to chip away at your heart with its harrowing journey, with little hope in sight.
My Little Sister envelopes you with its wave of sadness, denial and reflection. Nina Hoss gives another superb performance, working wonderfully alongside Lars Eidinger’sintense vulnerability, while clearly taking the lead. Stéphanie Chuat and Véronique Reymond create a thoughtful drama with a striking visual and a loving sincerity.
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