Permission

The movie "Permission" is a 2017 American drama film that delves into the complexities of relationships, desire, and the human need for connection. Directed by Brian Crano and written by Brian Crano and Tamara Cheyette, the film explores the lives of Will and Anna, a couple who have been with each other since the beginning of their adult lives. Anna and Will's relationship has been the stuff of which fairy tales are made. They shared their first kiss, their first love, and their first relationship, and have been inseparable ever since. As they approach their 10-year anniversary, the couple's friends and family gather to celebrate Anna's 30th birthday in a lavish party. The atmosphere is festive, with laughter and champagne flowing freely. However, the evening takes an unexpected turn when Anna's best friend, Joe, makes a drunken toast, proposing that Will and Anna engage in an open relationship before settling down. The joke falls flat, leaving Will visibly uncomfortable. The suggestion hits a nerve, as it forces them to confront the reality of their situation. Despite their deep love for each other, the idea of exploring other relationships raises questions about their commitment and desire for intimacy. As the night wears on, Anna and Will retreat to their home, where they engage in a heartfelt conversation about their relationship. Will is visibly shaken, unsure of how to navigate the uncertainty that has been introduced into their relationship. Anna, on the other hand, begins to question their commitment to each other. The two begin to explore the idea of an open relationship, not as a permanent arrangement but as a way to reignite their passion and intimacy. This setup marks a significant turning point in the film, as the couple embarks on an unconventional experiment. The decision to engage in non-monogamy becomes a means to explore each other's desires, needs, and boundaries. Anna's suggestion is, in part, a response to the societal pressure to conform to traditional relationship models. She yearns for a sense of excitement and novelty in their relationship, something that has been missing since the early days of their romance. As the days turn into weeks, Anna and Will navigate the complexities of a non-traditional relationship. They establish rules and boundaries, agreeing to see other people but maintaining an openness and honesty about their encounters. The experience is fraught with challenges, as they confront feelings of jealousy, insecurity, and vulnerability. Will struggles with the idea of sharing Anna with others, feeling an intense possessiveness towards his partner. Anna, on the other hand, is more open to the idea, eager to explore the possibilities of her own desires. Throughout the film, director Brian Crano skillfully captures the emotional depth of the couple's relationship. The cinematography is intimate and evocative, conveying the complexities of love, desire, and intimacy. The performances of Rebecca Hall and Dan Stevens are nuanced and compelling, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. The film's pacing is deliberate and measured, taking the time to explore the intricacies of the couple's relationship. As the experiment unfolds, Anna and Will begin to confront deeper questions about their relationship. They grapple with the idea of what it means to be in love, whether commitment is a necessary component of intimacy, and whether their love is strong enough to withstand the challenges of non-monogamy. Through their experiences, the couple comes to realize that their love is not defined by a specific arrangement or set of rules but by their willingness to explore each other's needs and desires. Ultimately, the film "Permission" is a poignant exploration of love, desire, and relationship dynamics. It asks difficult questions about the nature of intimacy and challenges the couple to confront the complexities of their own desires. The film's conclusion is bittersweet, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and uncertainty. While the outcome of Anna and Will's experiment is left ambiguous, the film reminds us that love is a journey, not a destination, and that the true test of a relationship lies not in its rules or arrangements but in its capacity for growth, exploration, and understanding.