LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS (#HotDocs15 Review)

LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS

Directed by Laurie Kahn

LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS explores one of the most popular, yet least talked about, novel genres: romance. The film attempts to make a case for the often dismissed genre through conversations with both readers and writers. The authors argue that their books are not taken seriously because of their “happily ever after” plot structure. The film also features many authors reading from their most popular books, which gives the viewer am entirely separate insight into why these novels are not well regarded. These readings, while meant to make a positive case for the genre, instead uncover the unfortunate truth that, for the most part, these books just are not very well written. Of course there are some exceptions, like the adored Nora Roberts (who is featured sparingly), but some of the excerpts read in this film are absolutely cringe worthy.

Director Laurie Kahn does not seem to know what she wants to achieve with this film. There is no flow to LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS; it just jumps seamlessly from topic to topic. The film never really says anything more than people write these books, people read these books, authors and readers get along. That’s pretty much it. There are glimpses of a narrative in the film, but they are never built on. We see one author struggling to begin her first book, and the next time we see her she is unwrapping the first proof copy. Kahn gives the audience nothing to invest themselves in, which makes the eighty-four minutes of the film quite slow. There may be love between the covers of these books, but there’s no love to be found in this film.

LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS will have its International Premiere at the HotDocs Canadian International Documentary Festival, as part of the Next program, which focuses on the arts, creativity, music and pop culture.

Screening Schedule …

Saturday, April 25, 9:00 PM, Isabel Bader Theatre

Sunday, April 26, 4:15 PM, TIFF Bell Lightbox

Friday, May 1, 9:30 PM, Fox Theatre

For more information and for tickets, please visit hotdocs.ca.

Your turn!

How many sheep would you give Love Between the Covers?

[kkstarratings]