Together (2010)

Original Title: 在一起

Zhao Liang’s film portrays AIDS sufferers of both genders; they are all people with very different biographies. As if it wasn’t bad enough being infected by HIV, their suffering is compounded by the fact that in the People’s Republic of China the disease is hushed up and people living with AIDS are ostracised. In China, the public at large knows very little about the disease and most people associate the virus with promiscuity. This fear of discrimination forces most patients to hide the fact that they are positive. The AIDS sufferers in Zhao Liang’s film were willing to share their experiences with him. The filmmaker was able to make contact with them via internet support groups; he also visited children with Aids at a ‘red ribbon’ school; but above all, he talked to AIDS sufferers during the making of Gu Changwei’s film. It is their presence which lends Changwei’s film its particular authenticity.

Introduction and Background
The 2010 film "Together" is a moving drama directed by Eicke Bettinga, focusing on human feelings, sorrow, loss, and healing. This German short film, running only 24 minutes, managed to leave a profound effect on its audiences by showcasing extreme sensations of isolation and the deep need for friendship in times of distress.

Plot Summary
The story unfolds with the main protagonist, played by Peter Faulkner, referred to as an unnamed "Man". The character suffered a tragic loss when his other half died in an accident, causing him to feel burdened by enormous solitude and guilt. The narrative slowly explores the man's grief and his struggle to deal with the solitude. His life deviates when a roaming canine enters it and him discovering friendship in the unforeseen visitor.

Interactions and Developments
The man at first frowns at the pet dog's invasion into his life, which represents the mayhem and interruption to his constant sorrow. As the story advances, he gradually warms to the dog, starts feeding it, and ultimately permits it inside his house. The interactions between the guy and the canine are heartfelt and depict the healing friendship can bring to sorrow and isolation. The pet's existence in his life stirs a change in the guy as he slowly, yet noticeably, starts acknowledging his sensations and starts his journey towards healing.

Emotional Depth
Throughout the movie, the guy visits his wife's grave regularly with the pet dog, a sign of their shared mourning. Director Bettinga skillfully checks out the depth of their shared complaint and friendship without discussions or narrative. With the dog's unanticipated intrusion and eventual companionship, the guy learns to reengage with life, shown subtly through little acts like consuming, walking, and notably, smiling.

Conclusion
In the climax, the male loses his newly discovered companion, instigating another wave of grief, today, he faces it rather than suppress it. Through this process, he learns to browse his grief and begins to heal genuinely. This improvement represents that the journey shared together with the canine has actually made him a stronger person geared up to deal with loss much better.

General Impact
The movie "Together" effectively depicts an engaging narrative about grief, loss, healing, and the power of friendship. The movie's strength lies in its capability to interact intense emotions through a minimalistic technique. The absence of discussions and reliance on visuals and subtle gestures enhances its emotional effect. The efficiencies by the lead actor and the pet dog are commendable, making the movie a touching and potent representation of human feelings. Conclusively, the film leaves viewers with a deep understanding of grief and the transformative power of friendship.

Top Cast

Zhang Ziyi

Herself
Aaron Kwok
Gu Changwei