High Art

High Art is currently streaming in the US on Criterion Channel and Kanopy, and it earns its romantic beats rather than assuming them. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. 147 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Radha Mitchell is the anchor, and the chemistry with the rest of the cast carries every scene. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Criterion Channel.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, High Art is worth clearing space for. What makes High Art work is that the obstacles feel real, not manufactured for the plot. When Syd, a young editor at an influential art magazine, becomes involved with her neighbor, a drug-addicted lesbian photographer, both seek to exploit each other for their respective careers while slowly falling in love with each other. Radha Mitchell and Ally Sheedy lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1998. The relationship at the centre of High Art develops at a pace that feels earned rather than rushed for plot reasons. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

For anyone who wants romantic drama that respects their intelligence, High Art is a strong recommendation. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Radha Mitchell's performance makes the emotional stakes feel real, not manufactured. Worth watching alone or with someone who shares your taste.