Chilly Scenes of Winter
Director: Joan Micklin Silver
Actors: John Heard, Mary Beth Hurt, Peter Riegert
PlotCharles is a young government worker in Salt Lake City who finds his life at a standstill. In the depths of winter, he perpetually revisits the memories of Laura, the woman he loves who left him months ago. His co-worker and friend Sam, who inhabits a similarly disappointed existence, often listens to Charles' reflections and attempts to offer pragmatic advice. Despite these efforts, Charles remains fixated on Laura, replaying moments from their shared past through humorous and bittersweet anecdotes. This fixation is fueled by brief and seemingly random encounters with Laura, who is now married to another man named Ox. Although she appears to be moving on, Charles cannot rid himself of the belief that they are meant to be together.
Motivated by this conviction, Charles embarks on a journey that blurs the line between persistence and obsession. He keeps seeking out opportunities to reconnect with Laura, even as those around him start questioning his actions. The narrative captures Charles' oscillation between reality and his romanticized memories, juxtaposed with Laura's realities and choices. As seasons change, the film unpacks themes of love, memory, and the anguish of holding onto something that may never return. Charles' relentless pursuit nudges events toward an uncertain future, leaving the viewer contemplating whether genuine love can triumph over time or if it becomes an endless cycle of missed opportunities and regret.
Writers: Ann Beattie, Joan Micklin Silver
Release Date: 15 Jul 1982
Runtime: 95 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Chilly Scenes of Winter offers a solid 4K transfer for an inquisitive romantic drama, though its packaging of complex themes may not engage all viewers.
Read our review of Chilly Scenes of Winter Blu-ray to find out more