Written and directed by leading actor Bob Celli, Marco and Joanna enjoy an electric marriage, until Marco is witness to a series of events which lead him to suspect Joanna may be having an affair with a co-worker. Also starring: Jennifer Plotzke, Dave Roberts and Melissa Joyner.
Because I Love You invites you in with a score (by Dave Fox) that’s classically styled to fit an atmosphere of mystery and deception. Bob Celli sets the tone with the feel of a quintessential behind closed doors tale, full of secrets, seduction and suspicion. The location choice was a definite advantage, to provide that feel of luxury and freedom without feeling grandiose or extravagant. Celli’s directorial style is simple but effective, having a stillness and strong focus to match its envious story.
A story which dives into a theme which is as relevant today as it might have been hundreds of years ago, jealousy and insecurity. Which is interesting given that there are strong shades of Othello running throughout Because I Love You. It’s charged with a lot of sexuality which can feel like a distraction rather than adding to the plot, losing its subtlety and the opportunity to add more complexity. There’s something to it that’s reminiscent of romantically driven crime films of the late nineties and early noughties, typically starring Ashley Judd.
The performances in particular give that feel, they have a certain theatricality to them, an old-fashioned styling. Celli brings a great intensity which doesn’t overplay its hand, portraying the deep insecurity and fear leading to his suspicions without needing to be aggressive. Jennifer Plotzke does a similarly great job of giving Joanna potential, the way she presents herself and her delivery of dialogue, leaving things open to interpretation. The same goes for Dave Roberts, which nicely adds to the growing tension.
However, it can feel as though Because I Love You is moving a little on the slow side. As well as treading over some extremely familiar ground, needing to throw in a few more unexpected or unique elements to set itself apart more strongly. The cinematography also struggles to add sharpness, which could have nicely elevated the story and added some depth to the visual.
Because I Love You holds a solidly tense and mysterious atmosphere, but the story finds itself going down a much travelled road. Most of its elements are all working really well together, setting the right tone but it’s missing that extra unpredictability or individuality to make it stand out more effectively. Although, it’s a timeless story in that our society has yet to evolve beyond the simple trappings of envy and jealousy.
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