The Loneliest Planet (2011)

Cast: Gael García Bernal, Hani Furstenberg, Bidzina Gujabidze

Director: Julia Loktev

Rating: NR

Running Time: 113 min.

Synopsis: A shocking incident throws a seemingly healthy relationship into uncertainty in this drama from director Julia Loktev. Alex (Gael Garcia Bernal) and Nica (Hani Furstenberg) are a twenty-something couple who have been together for several years and enjoy travel, taking certain pride in their willingness to rough it rather than follow the easy path. Alex and Nica will soon be married, and to celebrate they've traveled to Eurasia to climb the Caucasus Mountains. Hiring a local guide, Dato (Bidzina Gujabidze), the couple hikes through the wilderness approaching the mountains, often swapping stories and endearments but often soaking in the rugged beauty of their surroundings in respectful silence, with Dato offering his own curt interjections. However, one day the hikers cross paths with a group of hunters, leading to an incident in which Alex's reaction seems either prudent or cowardly depending on one's perspective. Eventually the three pick themselves up and move on, but nothing seems the same for Alex and Nica from now on. The Loneliest Planet received its North American premiere at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival.