Now & Later

Now & Later is a provocative film released in 2011, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Philippe Diaz, boasting a talented cast including Keller Wortham, Shari Solanis, and Luis Fernandez-Gil. Known for its honesty about the human condition and raw portrayal of romance and eroticism, it offers a beautiful exploration of freedom, both physical and personal, while weaving in themes of contemporary politics and economic struggles.

The film’s plot revolves around two main characters – Bill Waszak (Keller Wortham), an ex-banker now turned fugitive due to his white-collar crimes, and Angela (Shari Solanis), a captivating immigrant woman who hides him in her apartment to ensure his safety. What starts as a mutually beneficial interaction between two seemingly disparate individuals burgeons into an intensely passionate affair that breaks free of societal norms and challenges the viewers' notions about sex and relationships.

The character of Bill, crafted remarkably by Keller Wortham, is a symbol of the high-profile individuals who were held culpable for the 2008 economic crash. Bill is a prisoner of his past actions. As he is on the run, he meets Angela who not only provides him with refuge but also gives him a fresh perspective on life.

Shari Solanis, as Angela, is unabashed and uninhibited. A woman of profound intellectual and emotional depth, Angela is a politically-minded activist who strives to challenge the status quo and questions societal norms. She, with her optimistic and independent spirit, exerts a transformative influence on Bill. Through her, he experiences what it means to be free in true essence – free from the societal constructs, taboos, and reservations.

Their relationship signals the intersection of the worlds – the materialistic world in crisis represented by Bill, and the philosophical, liberated world symbolized by Angela. The dichotomy is beautifully played out, with Angela’s striking perspective on life, love, and liberty becoming a catalyst for Bill's transformation. Their passionate encounters are depicted not merely as erotic explorations but rather as an epitome of personal freedom and emotional vulnerability.

Sprinkled throughout the plot are deeply philosophical discourses on capitalism, societal norms, prejudice, freedom, the concept of ‘home,' and the state of the world. These dialogues are delivered exquisitely by Luis Fernandez-Gil who adds another layer of complexity and depth to the storyline.

The tapestry of Now & Later is rich with various other characters who provide critical insights and represent different aspects of society, making the film a profound social commentary. One such character is a lonesome Hispanic man who speaks of the hardships in his life, further emphasizing the themes of political criticism and economic suffocation.

Diaz’s direction is commendable as he manages to handle intense themes without letting them overshadow the central relationship of Bill and Angela. He succeeds in maintaining a delicate balance between sensuality and the hard-hitting social and political critiques. The explicit scenes are shot artistically and tastefully, serving as a platform to express the liberation of mind and body. The film is not shy about highlighting the carnal aspects of human relationships, which helps in breaking the stereotypes and taboos associated with it.

Los Angeles, where the film is set, is captured beautifully, almost magically, creating a subtle contrast with the harsh realities of the world the characters live in. The city's skyline is depicted both as a symbol of capitalism's allure and a grim reminder of its pitfalls. The cinematography is noteworthy - each frame communicates meaning and adds depth to the story.

To summarize, Now & Later is a bold and unflinching portrayal of love, liberation, and life’s harsh realities. It combines a daring narrative with an honest exploration of explicit relationships. The film forces its viewers to question societal norms while leading them on a visually captivating journey done with care and sophistication. Particularly notable are the performances of Keller Wortham as Bill and Shari Solanis as Angela, who manage to stir the audience with their raw realism and vivid portrayal of complex characters. Above all, Now & Later is a thought-provoking piece of cinema that sends a powerful message about personal freedom and societal critique, beautifully balancing the sensuous and the intellectual. This movie undoubtedly excels in provoking thought and challenging societal taboos.