Simple Passion 2022

Literature professor Hélène, a divorced mother residing in the Paris suburbs with her young son, Paul, finds herself entangled in a fervent affair with the enigmatic Alexandre, a younger and married Russian diplomat stationed at the embassy. Their passionate relationship sparks from a chance encounter at a party in Porto, leading to clandestine afternoon meetings at Hélène’s home. Despite the excitement, Alexandre is often emotionally distant, meeting Hélène only when it is convenient for him and insisting she avoid contacting him, particularly during his time with his wife. Hélène’s infatuation with him deepens as she spends many solitary hours awaiting his calls, which leads her into a spiral of obsession.

Her loyal confidante, Anita, observes the precarious nature of their affair and warns Hélène that it is likely cursed from the start, given Alexandre’s commitments and impending return to Russia. Anita suggests that Hélène might be “in love with love itself.” When Alexandre conveys he’ll be away for a few weeks with his wife, Hélène reluctantly decides to take Paul on an unplanned getaway to Florence. In a moment of vulnerability, she finds herself alone in a church, shedding tears and seeking solace from a passerby.

Once back in Paris, a call from Alexandre ignites a brief yet passionate reunion; however, it quickly escalates into a disagreement when he chastises her for her attire. Even as their encounters continue, Alexandre occasionally opens up about his life, sharing details about his upbringing and revealing he resides on Tverskaya Street in Moscow. During one intimate moment, Hélène declares her love for him, yet he remains non-responsive, only furthering her emotional turmoil.

As time progresses, Alexandre reiterates his need for distance, leading Hélène to plead with him to stay, which ultimately irritates him into leaving. Following a stern talk with Anita, who criticizes Hélène for her submissive behavior, Hélène resolves to not let Alexandre in during their next encounter. However, the magnetic pull proves too strong, and they passionately embrace yet again.

In a moment of desperation, Hélène reaches out to the embassy for Alexandre, arranging to meet him in a hotel room. When he fails to appear, the disappointing news that he has returned to Moscow sends Hélène into a profound depression, leading her to neglect Paul and her work duties. The reality of her situation is further underscored by a visit from her ex-husband, who harshly reminds her of her responsibilities.

In a session with her psychiatrist, Hélène confesses a wild act of spontaneity: she had boarded a flight to Moscow for just a day, hoping to cross paths with Alexandre on Tverskaya Street. Fast forward eight months, Hélène seems to be reclaiming her life as she watches Paul play football. Suddenly, she receives a call from Alexandre, who surprises her with a visit. Eager to enjoy their time without interruption, she sends Paul off to a friend’s house to spend the night.

Following an intimate reunion, Hélène offers to drive Alexandre back to his hotel, a journey filled with a mix of hope and impending heartbreak. As they arrive, she ponders whether their passionate affair will blossom again, fearing it might be over. With a bittersweet farewell, Alexandre calling her “my love” as he heads inside, Hélène watches, tearfully bracketed by uncertainty, as he fades from her sight.