Goodbye, Petrushka (2022)

A vibrant and optimistic examination of love, Goodbye, Petrushka may not be flawless, but it captivates your emotions with its peculiar and endearing moments.

Set in the enchanting city of Paris, the film introduces Claire (Lizzie Kehoe), a young woman with aspirations of becoming a puppeteer and finding love. Serendipitously, she crosses paths with Thibaut (Thomas Vieljeux), a disheartened ice skater. Their encounter proves to be transformative for both, expanding their horizons and inviting them to embrace new possibilities.

Pursuing one’s desires can be daunting, especially when faced with persistent discouragement and a diminishing sense of self-worth. Nevertheless, this movie dares to dream, delivering a commendable message of laughter and encouragement that resonates until the very end.

Occasionally, the dialogue may feel less natural, and the musical score can become somewhat repetitive, akin to a child’s lullaby or a perpetually turning music box. Nonetheless, this sentiment possesses a certain charm, even if some compositions prove more effective than others.

“Some of us need to hear a beating heart.”

Yet, what the film may lack in refinement, it compensates for with its undeniable charm. Writer and director Nicola Rose infuses the story with a whimsical romanticism that is impossible to ignore. The result is a romantic comedy experience that pulsates with genuine emotion and a touching narrative.

Lizzie Kehoe brings a contagious energy to her portrayal, illuminating every scene with the wide-eyed wonder that we all aspire to embody.

Sometimes, we encounter individuals who serve as reminders that we deserve our place in this world and the happiness that comes with it. These people come into our lives at just the right moment, offering support and encouragement that helps us believe in ourselves and pursue our dreams. They act as guiding lights, illuminating our path and reinforcing the idea that we are deserving of love and joy.

Goodbye, Petrushka encompasses the essence of a bashful smile, a determined stance, and a warm hug, all converging into a single experience.

Rose‘s film exudes a self-assured confidence, akin to that of a seasoned director. However, Goodbye, Petrushka occasionally stumbles due to its own ambitious core. Its childlike innocence and cuteness sometimes result in narrative and dialogue that falter.

However, Goodbye, Petrushka is a compelling feature that plays to its strengths to create a lovingly made inspiring tale.