11/15/2024
FILM REVIEW: Finding love beyond the screen in Poladian’s 'Love Is in the Water'
📽🎞🎬With the Pomegranate Film Festival just around the corner, we’re excited to present a review [BELOW] of 'Love Is in the Water,' Armen Poladian's debut feature film, which won the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at last year’s festival. As an Armenian-Canadian filmmaker with strong ties to the Toronto community, Poladian delivers a thought-provoking exploration of love, identity, and social media addiction that has left a lasting impression. Read our review to discover why this local talent continues to resonate:
Finding love beyond the screen in Poladian’s 'Love Is in the Water'
By Rupen Janbazian
Armen Poladian’s debut feature film, ‘Love Is in the Water,’ offers a refreshing and thought-provoking take on modern love, personal identity, and the impact of social media addiction on human connection. As a first-time feature director, Poladian uses his Armenian-Canadian heritage and personal experiences to craft a narrative that balances universal themes and deep cultural resonance, particularly for those familiar with the Armenian communities of Cambridge and Toronto.
At the heart of the film is Bedros, an introverted and socially isolated Armenian-Canadian screenwriter, whose constant quest to find love on social media traps him in a cycle of online addiction and isolation. Cleverly blending reality with fantasy, Poladian uses distinct visual techniques to differentiate between Bedros’ real life and his digital world. Black-and-white and sepia tones are employed to represent the artificial, hollow nature of his virtual existence, while vibrant natural lighting symbolizes the richness of human interaction and the real world. This creative decision is one of the film’s standout elements, showcasing Poladian’s cinematic instincts and adding depth to an otherwise familiar narrative. Notably, Poladian takes on multiple roles in the film—from directing, writing, and producing to cinematography and editing—a rare and impressive feat that highlights his dedication and versatility as a filmmaker.
The film has already garnered critical recognition, winning the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Pomegranate Film Festival in Toronto, while also being nominated for several awards at the Arpa International Film Festival, including Best Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. These accolades speak to Poladian’s talent and potential as a filmmaker, signalling that ‘Love Is in the Water’ has resonated with audiences and critics alike.
The film’s connection to Armenian tradition is evident from its opening sequence, where the legend of St. Sargis, the Armenian patron saint of love, sets the stage for Bedros’ personal journey. This cultural framing grounds the story in Armenian customs and enriches the narrative with symbolic weight, as Bedros—like many who celebrate St. Sargis—seeks love and purpose, albeit in the virtual realm. The use of local Armenian landmarks, such as the Armenian Community Centre of Cambridge, the St. Nshan Armenian Apostolic Church, and the gymnasium of the Armenian Evangelical Church of Toronto, lends the film a sense of authenticity and community, particularly for Armenian-Canadian viewers who will recognize these familiar locations.
The performances in ‘Love Is in the Water’ are engaging and nuanced, with Kevo Bostajian’s portrayal of Bedros as the standout. Bostajian brings a quiet intensity to his role, expertly capturing Bedros’ internal conflict as he becomes increasingly aware of his detachment from reality. His performance is complemented by Aida Gregorian’s portrayal of Natalie, the angelic figure who serves as Bedros’ guide to breaking free from his self-imposed isolation. The dynamic between these two characters adds a layer of mystical realism to the film, which is both surprising and poignant.
Despite its strengths, the film is not without its imperfections. As a first-time feature, ‘Love Is in the Water’ sometimes stumbles in its pacing, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others linger a little too long. There are moments where the dialogue could benefit from tighter writing, and the development of some secondary characters feels incomplete. However, these are minor criticisms in the grand scheme of what Poladian has achieved with this debut feature. His willingness to take risks and experiment with form, narrative structure, and cinematography is commendable, and it’s clear that ‘Love Is in the Water’ is only the beginning of what promises to be a bright career in filmmaking.
Perhaps the film’s most compelling aspect is its underlying message, which resonates deeply in today’s hyperconnected world. As Bedros struggles to reconcile his virtual persona with his real-life relationships, the film serves as a reminder of the importance of stepping away from screens and embracing the genuine connections that enrich our lives. Poladian masterfully uses fantasy elements to highlight this theme, crafting a story that is both relatable and inspiring.
‘Love Is in the Water’ is a commendable first feature that showcases Poladian’s potential as a filmmaker. While there is room for growth in storytelling and technical ex*****on, the film’s heart and creative ambition are undeniable. Poladian’s ability to infuse his work with cultural significance and universal themes makes ‘Love Is in the Water’ a must-see for those interested in contemporary Armenian-Canadian cinema and anyone looking for a thoughtful exploration of love in the digital age. With a strong foundation in place, Armen Poladian is a filmmaker to watch, and his future projects will undoubtedly continue to push boundaries and captivate audiences. ֎
Love Is in the Water. 2023, 1 hour 5 minutes
Director: Armen Poladian
Producer: Armen Poladian
Writer: Armen Poladian
Starring: Kevo Bostajian, Aida Gregorian, Kami Kakousian, Armen Poladian, Liana Bdewi
Cinematography: Armen Poladian
Editing: Armen Poladian
Music: Hamo Arzoumanian
(Photo: Screengrab 'Love Is in The Water', Kevo Bostajian portraying Bedros)
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Also, don’t miss out on this year’s exciting installment of the Pomegranate Film Festival! Live screenings will take place from November 15-17 at the Hamazkayin Theatre, located within the Armenian Youth Centre at 50 Hallcrown Place. Be sure to experience the vibrant storytelling and unique perspectives showcased at this beloved annual celebration of Armenian cinema!
