Coming-of-age stories often thrive on dramatic twists and high-stakes scenarios, but Goran Stolevski’s “Of an Age” takes a different route, finding its emotional core in the quieter moments of connection, many of which unfold during car rides. This Australian film, set against the backdrop of Melbourne in 1999 and 2010, isn’t about explosive action; instead, it’s a patient exploration of how a fleeting encounter, punctuated by significant journeys in cars, can subtly yet profoundly alter the course of two young men’s lives.
The film opens on a sweltering December day where Nikola “Kol” Danic, a teenage ballroom dancer, receives a frantic call from his dance partner, Ebony. What follows is a frantic search across beach towns, undertaken with Ebony’s brother, Adam, primarily in Adam’s car. These initial car rides are not just about navigating Melbourne’s geography; they become the crucible for an unexpected connection. As Kol and Adam drive, a sense of intimacy builds, culminating in a sexual encounter that night – Kol’s first. However, with both set to leave the country, this nascent relationship seems destined to remain a brief interlude.
Eleven years later, the narrative revisits Kol and Adam as they reconnect at Ebony’s wedding. While the initial spark was ignited during their shared car journey and the urgency of finding Ebony, the film emphasizes the lingering impact of that brief time together. The essence of “Of an Age” resides in the extended dialogues between Kol and Adam, often taking place during car trips. These aren’t just transitions from one scene to another; the car becomes a space for vulnerability and revelation. Think of it as a character in itself, facilitating conversations about everything from Cate Blanchett to the complexities of Balkan history, and even the disruption of air travel by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in 2010 – moments shared and memories forged within the confines of a vehicle.
While “Of an Age” may not be a high-octane “Riding In Cars With Boys” adventure in a literal sense, it masterfully utilizes the intimacy of car rides to explore deeper emotional landscapes. The film might initially evoke comparisons to dance-centric movies, but it quickly establishes itself as a character-driven piece, reminiscent of conversation-heavy films. Though perhaps not reaching the heights of Andrew Haigh’s “Weekend” in its dialogue, “Of an Age” still offers quality exchanges that delve into the protagonists’ inner worlds and their evolving relationship.
The movie, directed by Macedonian filmmaker Goran Stolevski, ensures that the focus remains firmly on Kol and Adam, preventing Ebony’s dramatic flair from overshadowing their journey of self-discovery and connection. Cinematographer Matthew Chuang beautifully captures the unassuming charm of Melbourne’s coastal towns, the car interiors becoming intimate stages for the unfolding drama.
While some might crave more depth in the supporting roles or a richer exploration of Kol’s background, “Of an Age” excels in portraying how a seemingly fleeting sexual encounter, born from a shared car adventure and deepened through subsequent conversations in vehicles, sets the trajectory for both men’s lives. It’s in these reflective moments, much like the quiet contemplation one might have while riding in cars, that “Of an Age” finds its power. It’s a film that lingers, prompting reflection on the subtle yet significant ways our lives are shaped by chance encounters and the journeys, both literal and emotional, we undertake.
