Some love stories last over a small period, like a single summer or school year. Others last for years, signifying the intense connection between the two lovers. 2023’s Since The Last Time We Met is a recent example of the latter, focusing on the relationship between Victor (Patricio Arellano) and David (Esteban Recagno).
The two lovers are reunited after fifteen years after a chance encounter in the streets of Buenos Aires. The two are delighted to see one another after so much time. However, things are...complicated. David ghosted Victor. To make matters worse, Victor never told anyone about their relationship. He had nobody to vent to, no outlet to express his heartbreak after David cut off contact.
Despite all of this, the two former lovers re-enter each other’s lives. Complicating this is the fact David is now married. To a woman. Nevertheless, the two fall back into a routine of secret meetups. The way the two lovers interact with each other makes it seem like no time has passed at all. Director Matias de Leis Correa also intersperses scenes of David and Victor’s previous relationship. This acts as a way for the audience to see how the two have grown, as well as the relationships they have with their own sexuality. One can infer that David isn’t at peace with his sexuality, and his relationship with his wife is him closeting his identity.
One vital part of the film is its title. Every time David and Victor get together (which becomes more frequent as the film progresses), the film discusses the amount of time it has been since “the last time we met.” We discover that Victor has had countless flings and trysts to try and get over David, yet none of these were meaningful. We also find out David regrets the way he left things with Victor, further complicating matters. The film's exploration of unresolved emotions and the struggle for authenticity make it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a complex and heartfelt love story.
How can professors incorporate Since The Last Time We Met into a Classroom Syllabus?
Since The Last Time We Met can be effectively incorporated into a classroom syllabus, especially in courses focusing on film studies, LGBTQ+ studies, psychology, or cultural studies. Here are some approaches:
- LGBTQ+ Studies: Explore the themes of closeted relationships, the impact of societal expectations on personal identity, and the emotional turmoil associated with hiding one's true self. Discuss the film’s portrayal of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in different cultural contexts.
- Psychology: Examine the psychological effects of ghosting, unresolved relationships, and the emotional consequences of living a closeted life. Discuss the coping mechanisms displayed by Victor and David.
- Discussion and Essays: Encourage students to write essays or engage in discussions about the film’s representation of love, regret, and reconciliation. Focus on the emotional depth and authenticity of the characters' experiences.
What are the ideal public screening settings for Since The Last Time We Met?
Since The Last Time We Met would be ideal for the following types of public screenings:
- LGBTQ+ Film Festivals: The film’s exploration of same-sex love, closeting, and reunion makes it an excellent choice for festivals celebrating LGBTQ+ narratives.
- Romance Film Festivals: Screen the film at festivals that focus on love stories, highlighting its unique take on long-lost love and the complexities of rekindling a past relationship.
- Cultural Events: Screen the film at events that celebrate Argentine culture, focusing on how the film portrays contemporary relationships within the cultural setting of Buenos Aires.