Marianne 2024

Art & Craft

Regarding direction and cinematography, Broomfield’s use of home‑video and grainy Super‑8 material adds an authentic texture that many reviewers find compelling. The visual composition highlights the Greek setting and intimate moments, though some critics argue the editing feels meandering, contributing to a slower rhythm. Overall, the craft is solid, delivering a visually engaging but occasionally uneven experience.

Character & Emotion

When evaluating character depth, the documentary succeeds in conveying the emotional bond between Cohen and Ihlen, eliciting poignancy noted by several critics. However, the focus on Cohen’s persona overshadows broader perspectives, leading some viewers to perceive the portrait as one‑sided and the personalities under‑developed. The result is a nuanced yet imperfect portrayal of the couple’s emotional landscape.

Story & Flow

The narrative structure blends archival clips with interview recollections, offering a generally coherent chronology of the couple’s years together. Yet reviewers cite a loss of momentum in the latter half, describing the pacing as sluggish and occasional timeline confusion. While the story introduces compelling historical context, its uneven pacing hampers sustained engagement.

Sensory Experience

The soundtrack, anchored by Cohen’s own recordings, and the ambient Greek soundscape receive consistent praise for enhancing the film’s mood. Visual style, marked by nostalgic colour palettes and textured footage, reinforces the period feel. Some audience members note a sedate, almost hypnotic tone that may feel languid, but overall the sensory elements enrich the documentary’s atmosphere.

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch potential appears strongest for dedicated Cohen fans, who value the archival performances and intimate interviews. Casual viewers, however, often cite the slow pacing and limited new insights as deterrents to repeat viewings. Consequently, the film offers modest replay value, appealing chiefly to those seeking a deeper appreciation of the artist’s personal history.