Two of Us

Synopsis

Two of Us (original title: Deux) is a poignant 2020 French drama directed by Filippo Meneghetti, featuring a heartfelt performance by Barbara Sukowa. The film explores the secret romance between two elderly women, Nina, a retired music teacher, and Madeleine, a recently widowed grandmother. As their discreet relationship deepens, they face the pressures of societal norms and the fears of being discovered by family and friends. Set against a backdrop of everyday life, the film delicately portrays themes of love, identity, and resilience in later life, emphasizing emotional intimacy and the quiet struggles of hidden affection.

Cast

• 

  Barbara Sukowa

  Nina Dorn

• 

  Martine Chevallier

  Madeleine Girard

• 

  Léa Drucker

  Anne

• 

  Jérôme Varanfrain

  Frédéric

• Muriel Bénazéraf

  Muriel

• 

  Denis Jousselin

  Director of Retirement Home

Reviews

Critically acclaimed, Two of Us holds an 82/100 score on Metacritic, signaling generally favorable reviews, and a 7.2/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting solid audience appreciation. Critics have praised the film for its sensitive storytelling and compelling lead performances, especially Barbara Sukowa's nuanced portrayal of Nina. The Hollywood Reporter's David Rooney noted that the film "delivers a beautifully understated story of love and loss," highlighting its subtle emotional depth. Rotten Tomatoes' critics consensus commends the movie for "gracefully handling themes of love and identity with sensitivity and warmth." However, some reviewers have mentioned that the film's deliberate pacing might not appeal to all viewers, with Variety commenting that "the quiet tension sometimes borders on slow." Nevertheless, the consensus appreciates the film as a tender and realistic reflection on the constraints imposed by age and society. Its intimate narrative and strong character development make it a noteworthy entry in LGBTQ+ cinema.