The Way They Were (1987)

The Way They Were Poster
Original Title: Así como habían sido

The Way They Were is a Spanish Drama starring Antonio Banderas

Overview
"The Way They Were" is an engaging 1987 drama film directed by well-known filmmaker Martin Jarrard. The film revolves around the lives of 2 headstrong characters, Emily and Steven, who face numerous ups and downs in their romantic relationship due to social pressures and individual frailties. Set versus the backdrop of New York City, the narrative advances with a series of recollections, ultimately forming a dynamic tapestry of love, loss, and redemption.

Plot Summary
The movie opens with Emily, an ambitious author from Indiana, arriving in New York in the late 1970s. She quickly discovers herself fascinated in the city's busy art scene and crosses courses with Steven, a talented however seasoned theater actor. They share an instant connection and start dating, rapidly finding themselves entangled in an enthusiastic yet chaotic relationship. Emily's rural innocence contrasts greatly with Steven's urban despondency, developing a constant push-and-pull dynamic in between them.

Steven, fighting the pressure and disappointment of a stagnant acting career, turns to alcohol, posing a significant difficulty for their relationship. Emily comes to grips with self-doubt and a battle for acknowledgment in the competitive literary world. They discover solace in each other however likewise highlight each other's insecurities, resulting in explosive arguments and short-term break-ups.

Conflict and Resolution
"The Way They Were" represents their troubled relationship over a decade, interspersed with minutes of tenderness, conflict, success, and failure. The film does a commendable task revealing the raw, unfiltered truth of love, striping away the fairy-tale façade and providing a truthful image of a deeply flawed yet genuine relationship.

The story reaches its peak when Steven's alcoholism magnifies, causing a vital intervention that forces him to face his addiction. Emily, on the other hand, accomplishes substantial literary success but feels deep space left by Steven's ongoing fight with dependency and their struggling relationship.

Lastly acknowledging the toxicity of their relationship, Emily and Steven choose to part methods. They both start various journeys to discover themselves - Emily immerses herself completely into composing, while Steven takes a break from acting to focus on sobriety.

Conclusion
Towards completion of the film, "The Way They Were" uses a poignant twist. Emily and Steven cross courses once again after a number of years, each having actually built effective but different lives. The encounter is filled with regret and fond memories however likewise shared respect and a sense of closure.

In general, "The Way They Were" is a deeply engaging and psychological film. Through a captivating and genuine narrative, it checks out the intricacies of relationships, individual devils, and the discomfort and charm of love. The movie sends out an effective message about self-discovery, healing, and the value of individual growth in maintaining a healthy relationship. In spite of its heart-wrenching moments, the movie stays a beloved romantic classic due to its raw emotional depth and exceptional performances from its lead stars.

Top Cast

  • Antonio Banderas (small)
    Antonio Banderas
    Damián
  • Massimo Ghini (small)
    Massimo Ghini
    Damián
  • Juan Diego (small)
    Juan Diego
    Alberto
  • Nina van Pallandt (small)
    Nina van Pallandt
    Elena
  • Luis Ciges (small)
    Luis Ciges
  • Amparo Climent (small)
    Amparo Climent
  • Félix Cubero (small)
    Félix Cubero
  • Antonio Gamero (small)
    Antonio Gamero
  • María Jesús Hoyos (small)
    María Jesús Hoyos
  • Eufemia Román
  • Ana Vasoni