SO LONG SAD LOVE offers a fresh perspective

So Long Sad Love: A Journey Through Isolation

The opening quote from Cléo from 5 to 7 sets the stage. It hints at an exploration of a young woman navigating through life’s complexities. But in Mirion Malle’s "So Long Sad Love," the journey takes a different path. We are drawn into a world where isolation becomes the focus, shaped by a toxic relationship that leaves wounds and lessons in its wake.

Navigating Toxicity

Malle crafts a poignant narrative that dives into Cléo’s life entangled with a boyfriend wrought with red flags. Her journey of awakening begins with meeting Farah, branded by Cléo’s partner and his friends as "a crazy bitch." This narrative choice cleverly explores how isolation builds in the shadows of manipulation and deception. Readers are taken into the intricacies of a failing relationship, painted vividly with raw emotions.

The charm lies in its exploration of Cléo’s self-discovery amidst chaos. Each sequence reveals the layers of misery and doubt clouding her love. It’s an experience that feels delicate yet powerful, depicting the turbulence of toxic partnerships. However, what it occasionally gains in emotional depth, it loses in the absence of silence and contemplation—elements once masterfully used in its cinematic predecessor.

Life After the Storm

As the comic progresses, the scope widens beyond the turmoil of Cléo’s toxic ties. It artfully shifts focus to life after the storm—how Cléo rebuilds and embraces genuine connections. She blossoms around friends who nurture her growth, no longer shadowed by her boyfriend’s influence. The color palette shifts to warmer tones, symbolizing hope and renewal.

Yet, the narrative structure still leans heavily on dialogues, reminiscent of the intense language that permeated the earlier half. This abundance of words detracts slightly from the newfound serenity Cléo discovers. The absence of silence in the second half misses an opportunity. It could have shown how moments of non-verbal introspection facilitate healing.

The comic book adaptation still succeeds in offering an intimate look at Cléo’s world. Malle’s storytelling, coupled with lovely cartooning, captures the essence of Cléo’s struggle and strength. While sometimes marred by a lack of quiet contemplation, it’s a work that resonates on many levels.

In summary, "So Long Sad Love" is a compelling piece that navigates the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. It showcases how experiences, toxic or otherwise, shape us and the beauty of emerging whole and hopeful. Though it doesn’t always mirror the silent depth of its inspiration, it stands as a beautiful testament to survival and growth.