Can a relationship overcome abandonment? Early 1900s Asia serves as the backdrop for the “Grand Tour.” Portuguese Miguel Gomes’ new film follows Edward, a British civil servant with a severe case of cold feet. He flees just as Molly, his fiance, arrives for their wedding. A unique adventure across Asia soon brings out unexpected emotions for the hesitant groom. The distinctive project merges black-and-white visuals and modern-day documentary footage.
‘Tour’ hails from Gomes, the acclaimed director of “Tabu” and “Arabian Nights.” His streak continues with this unconventional cinematic spectacle. It earned the filmmaker Best Director honors at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The film is additionally set to represent Portugal as the country’s Best International Feature entry at the 97th Academy Awards.
Gomes assembles a talented cast for this melodrama with comedic elements. Gonçalo Waddington stars as the conflicted groom Edward. Crista Alfaiate portrays the dedicated fiance, Molly. Both Waddington and Alfaiate are familiar with the filmmaker, having roles in “Arabian Nights.” Cláudio da Silva and Lang Khê Tran also star in ‘Tour.’ The project marks Khê Tran’s second feature film after her debut in “To The Ends Of The World.”
The film’s official synopsis:
1917, colonial Burma. Edward, a civil servant for the British Empire, jilts his lovestruck fiancée Molly the day she arrives to be married. As he escapes into an unexpected odyssey across Asia, she quickly follows suit, amused by his moves.
Filipa Reis serves as producer on “Grand Tour.” The MUBI film opens only in theaters on March 28. Watch the new trailer below.
