Written by Nadia Nugent, Image courtesy of Amazon Studios
“Sylvie’s Love” feels like your grandparents telling you the story of how they first met. It’s idyllic, sweet and speaks to puppy love in a bygone era. Sylvie (Tessa Thompson) falls for saxophonist Robert (Nnamdi Asomugha) who takes a part-time gig at her father’s record store in Harlem. Fate separates then reunites the pair years later, only for them to discover that their connection is still strong.
The story provides a nostalgic, wholesome respite from the world we live in now. Scenes of the lovebirds dancing in rain-soaked city streets feel extra wistful in the midst of the COVID era. It’s shot beautifully on super 16mm film, coupled with a rich score and vibrant costuming. Viewers are briefly transported to a simpler time.
For all its wholesomeness, “Sylvie’s Love” doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities the characters face. It’s a love story, sure, but it’s a black love story set in the 1950s and 60s. References are made to CORE, the NAACP and the March on Washington. The characters encounter racism and gendered limitations.
Writer-director Eugene Ashe draws on his music industry experience to address major pitfalls for performers in the business. But, he doesn’t focus on those factors.
“We wanted to make a film that was set in the past that wasn’t framed in our adversity,” Ashe said. “We wanted to make a film that was centered on a very human theme, on what unfinished business with the love of your life can do to you. It’s a love letter to Black folks, but we want everyone to read it.”
It’s also a love letter to the pursuit of passion and creativity. Sylvie was raised to be a member of the “talented tenth,” a model housewife, debutante and perfect 50s society woman. Yet her love of television draws her toward a career in media. Robert is a talented musician working to make a name for himself in the industry. Their passions are instrumental in uniting them no matter what life throws at them. It’s a powerful message for the audience.
“Life’s too short to waste time on things you don’t absolutely love,” Robert says to Sylvie at a pivotal moment in the film.
“But how do you know if you love something absolutely?” Sylvie says.
“I guess when it’s the only thing that matters.”
One of the driving forces of the film and a key piece of advice, “Sylvie’s Love” presents you with a compelling argument to follow your dreams.
