Kat Coiro’s And While We Were Here (2012) is a melancholic, visually poetic drama that explores love, longing, and self-discovery against the picturesque backdrop of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The film follows Jane (Kate Bosworth), a writer struggling with an unfulfilled marriage to her musician husband, Leonard (Iddo Goldberg). While accompanying him on a work trip, she meets the charming and free-spirited Caleb (Jamie Blackley), igniting an emotional and passionate affair that forces her to confront her desires and choices.

What makes this film compelling is its quiet, introspective tone. Shot in a dreamy, sun-drenched aesthetic, the cinematography beautifully captures the contrast between Jane’s inner turmoil and the serene, romantic setting. The black-and-white version of the film, in particular, enhances its timeless, almost ethereal quality, reminiscent of classic European cinema.

Kate Bosworth delivers a nuanced performance, portraying Jane’s vulnerability and restlessness with a subtle grace. Jamie Blackley’s portrayal of Caleb adds warmth and spontaneity, making their relationship feel both thrilling and bittersweet. The chemistry between the two is palpable, though the film doesn’t romanticize infidelity—it presents it as an emotional escape, one that comes with consequences.

While the plot is simple and at times meanders, And While We Were Here is more about mood and emotion than traditional storytelling. It’s an exploration of love and self-discovery rather than a grand romance. Some viewers may find the pacing slow, but those who appreciate introspective, atmospheric films will find its melancholic beauty captivating.

Overall, And While We Were Here is an evocative, quietly affecting film that lingers with you—an intimate meditation on love, loneliness, and the choices that define us.