
The brilliance of “Before Sunrise” lies in its unique approach, where it dedicates nearly an hour and a half to a phase that is typically condensed into a brief montage in many romantic comedies. Instead of rushing through scenes like the meet-cute, the couple in bed after intimacy, exploring markets together, or cooking meals, we often see in these films – think Tom and Summer browsing vinyl records, Annie and Alvy preparing lobster, Rachel Samstat and Mark sharing spaghetti carbonara from a large bowl in bed. In most movies following the conventional romantic comedy formula (two people meet, fall in love, break up, get back together), the montage is utilized to expedite the getting-to-know-you phase so we can delve into the emotional turmoil of the break-up and experience our emotions being stirred. Here, the movie takes its time to let us truly appreciate the relationship’s development without rushing things.