Love’s Bitter Mystery

The film Love’s Bitter Mystery has been produced and presented as part of the program of Bloomsday in Melbourne’s Centenary of the publication of Ulysses Festival, its 29th Festival celebrating James Joyce. This project began as an immersive play set at Villa Alba, a late 19^th century property in Kew of historical importance for its unique and decorative architecture and interior.

As with many theatrical projects during 2021 it was thwarted by COVID and in response to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic it was turned into a unique filmic rendition of the play. The story focuses on a critical year (1903-4) in the young author’s life and how he used (and changed) episodes from his own life in his famously controversial novel Ulysses. It is also an intriguing study of his relationship with his lifelong partner Nora Barnacle.

The film captures some exceptional performances designed for this immersive stage setting which has been cleverly adapted into a filmic version. Moses The Guide (May Jasper) is a vibrant character that keeps the audience beautifully connected to the plot. James Joyce (Tobias Miller) captures all the angst and uncertainty of the young emerging writer and Nora (Jacqueline Whiting) is played with beaming and sharp-witted charm.

The director has employed the unique setting to conjure up the various locations in Dublin and gives the characters an eternal and ethereal quality. Their spirits occupy the Villa with a haunting quality. The camera work in this film replicates the proximity of the audience to the performers with some great close-up work as well as fluid camera movement to highlight the sensuality of the location and the strength of the performances. This film represents a fascinating convergence between film and theatre and the wonderful affinity between the two.

Patricia Di Risio

Available to view at: https://www.the-scene.net/lovesbittermystery-watch