Written and directed by leading actor Bouli Lanners, co-directed by Tim Mielants and co-written by Stéphane Malandrin. Phil (Lanners), a robust middle-aged man suffers a stroke, causing him to lose his memory. Millie, who takes care of him, tells him that they were secretly in love before his accident. Also starring: Michelle Fairley, Andrew Still, Julian Glover, Cal MacAninch, Ainsley Jordan and Clovis Cornillac.
More often than not when dealing with stories of illness, lost memory or declining health, there’s an exploration of what is, or is going to be, lost but Nobody Has to Know instead delves into finding new love, connection and energy. It’s a nice change of pace, it still comes with its own waves of sadness but it focuses on the chemistry and care between Phil and Millie (Michelle Fairley). Portraying how having that kind of support and affection can be renewing forces in times of hardship and pain.
Although, that comes with its weaknesses, there’s an interesting theme of how we look at choices that are beneficial to all but done to serve our own ends but Nobody Has to Know is so deep into the relationship that it glosses over it slightly. It does create a subtle tension that grows and remains humble throughout, it just needed to dig a little deeper for a bigger impact. The style uses a lot of quietness which helps to hold that earnest air, and blending those sweet tones with rolling, picturesque landscapes is a wholesome mix.
The strongest element is undoubtedly the performances, watching Bouli Lanners and Michelle Fairley build this relationship is moving. It might not be completely unfamiliar but there is an unusual touch to it, a youthfulness or tentativeness, it’s very gentle and considerate. Lanners’ Phil is energetic and kind while Fairley’s Millie can be isolated and closed off, until she seizes the opportunity to be with Phil. The two of them together have natural and captivating chemistry.
Nobody Has to Know takes something that usually tears people apart and instead uses it to bring them together. Creating a sweet and touching relationship, a later in life love that might hit some bumps along the way but is delightfully bittersweet. It may not embrace its dramatic side to the fullest, choosing to focus on the romance but it’s a wholesome watch with great performances from Bouli Lanners and Michelle Fairley.
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