What We Wanted

What We Wanted is an intense drama film from Austria which was released in 2020. Directed by the talented Ulrike Kofler, the movie stars Lavinia Wilson, Elyas M’Barek, and Anna Unterberger in key roles. This emotionally driven narrative unfolds around an Austrian couple who are trying to deal with their wish of starting a family as natural problems arise, only to find themselves in an unexpected situation that tests their love and commitment to each other.

Lavinia Wilson, known for her brilliant performances, delivers a deeply moving portrayal of a woman named Alice who is intuitively longing for a child – a longing that defines her every action and personal relationship. Elyas M’Barek, a sensational actor in the German film industry, plays Niklas, Alice's husband, a man deeply in love with his wife and her dreams. With every moment on screen, he delivers a fine performance characterized by intense expressions and emotions. Anna Unterberger also plays an important role in the film, depicting a character who unintentionally becomes a part of Alice and Niklas' journey and impacts their lives in a profound way.

Right from the opening scene, What We Wanted captivates viewers by seamlessly and realistically conveying the life of a couple grappling with their unfulfilled yearning. Alice and Niklas' story is one of longing and love. They embark on a journey of trials and tribulations revolving around fertility issues, testing their marriage and emotional strength. Their struggle with miscarriages and unsuccessful fertility treatments becomes an all-encompassing aspect of their relationship. This struggle, while heart-wrenching, shows the unwavering love between the two.

An unexpected turn of events happens when Alice and Niklas, in their struggle to conceive and in desperate need of a respite from their stressful life in Vienna, decide to go on vacation. They end up sharing their holiday lodging with a vibrant and seemingly happy family. Anna Unterberger’s role enters at this stage and brings a new dimension to Alice and Niklas’ life and their vacation. This new family becomes a constant mirror to their own relationship, nudging them towards self-introspection.

What We Wanted is not just about a couple's battle with infertility. Rather, it beautifully explores the dynamics of relationships and the powerful emotion of longing - both for a child and a meaningful life. It provides an underlying commentary on societal expectations and pressures around starting a family, and the emotional turmoil it can result in when those expectations are not met. It reflects on the significance of companionship and the power of shared struggles, while equally delivering a poignant portrayal of individual desires, dreams, dilemmas, and introspection.

Director Ulrike Kofler masterfully presents this narrative with an exclusive combination of realistic performances, stirring dialogues, and picturesque cinematography. Some scenes capture the enchanting Austrian countryside, while others are brilliantly shot in enclosed spaces, creating an intimate setting to highlight the profound emotions experienced by the characters. The subtle play of light and shadow also adds to the film's overall aesthetics and emotional depth.

The performances by Wilson and M’Barek embody an astounding depth of emotion, striking a fine balance between stoic silence and intense expression. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, bringing life to their characters' trials with tenderness and honesty. Unterberger also shines in her role, adding to the intricate dynamics of the storyline and character relationships.

The film’s music is subtly composed, perfectly complementing the intense performances and dialogue. It seamlessly blends into the narrative, often underscoring the profound emotions being depicted and enhancing the narrative's overall impact.

In conclusion, What We Wanted is a beautifully woven story of love, longing, and introspection that explores unfulfilled desires, relationships, and the challenge of coping with societal pressures and personal expectations. With an impressive cast delivering superb performances, emotionally-charged dialogues, and skillful direction, this film leaves its audience with a strong and lasting emotional reverberation. It's a movie for those who appreciate a dramatic journey through life's trials and tribulations, underlined by a deep exploration of human emotions and relationships.