Charity Film Salon Evening at Murmo
On October 19, we watched François Ozon’s film *Double Lover* at Murmo, followed by an in-depth discussion led by Dr. Amaryl Árkovits and Krisztina Dorn. The event took place in Murmo’s group room, where we watched the film together in a cozy atmosphere. *Double Lover* is typically the kind of film that leaves you scratching your head, wondering exactly what is happening. Am I really seeing what I think I am? Is this actually happening? Is he imagining this, or is he dreaming? Where’s the twist? Questions like these and others may race through your mind while watching. If I tried to describe the story objectively, I certainly wouldn’t succeed. A significant part of the plot depends entirely on how the viewer interprets what they see. We witnessed numerous shocking, surprising, and unexpected scenes, and although opinions were certainly divided on whether the film counts as a “good movie,” it certainly achieved one goal: it prompted a roomful of people to think and discuss. And that’s not a bad result, even for a “bad movie.” After the screening, it took some coaxing to shake off our silent shock; we took a short break to enjoy the refreshments offered on-site, hoping to somewhat ease the intensity of the emotions and thoughts swirling within us. During the discussion that followed, the audience—composed largely of professionals in the helping fields and psychologists—lived up to expectations. Hypotheses flew thick and fast about various maternal qualities, the distinction between psychotic states and reality, the, the framework of the therapeutic relationship, the acknowledgment of needs, the meanings of the symbols used in the film, and, of course, the customary self-reflection could not be left out, as we also discussed how the film affected each of us and what feelings it evoked in us. It became clear just how different the meanings and significance we attributed to certain scenes were; we discussed how the various elements could be interpreted, and this greatly broadened my perspective on the film. Personally, I would highly recommend such a discussion to everyone at the end of any similar film, as the many different perspectives can offer a much more diverse and—in my opinion— more complete understanding.
The discussion was followed by further pleasant conversation, eating, and drinking, thanks to which everyone could let go of (or, if desired, continue to reflect on) this deeper shared contemplation. Once again, we can look back on a successful evening with a great atmosphere, which, incidentally, also supported the Pro Juventa Foundation and, through it, the well-being of many children.
A big thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to this, whether through organization or participation!
Written by Eszter Virág