Though there are ways to go when it comes to ace representation, Slow is a massive step in the right direction. It follows Elena, a carefree and non-committal lover, and Dovydas, a monogamous asexual. Can they make their relationship work? Slow is a careful exploration of that question. It’s surprisingly intimate, even more so than explicitly sensual films, and sensitive to Elena and Dovydas’ wildly different but equally valid needs. It’s never judgemental and always gentle about their sexual desires, habits, and questions. Perhaps most importantly, it addresses the inherent complexity of being asexual head-on. Asexuality here is not a joke or a coincidence, but the main thing everything else hinges on. Still, Elena and Dovydas remain universally relatable. Slow tackles issues of affection and trust that come with every relationship, regardless of sexual orientation. Their conversations will gut you, and their love will inspire you to be with someone deserving of your worth.
"Slow maps out desires and dreams through minute glances, gestures, and silences. Watching it feels like falling in love."
— Savina Petkova
"[A} quietly affecting work, one of the more engaging romantic dramas to come along in a while."
— Peter Sobczynski
Dancer Elena and sign language interpreter Dovydas meet and form a beautiful bond. As they dive into a new relationship, they must navigate how to build their own kind of intimacy.
Elena (Greta Grineviciute) and Dovydas (Kęstutis Cicėnas) try to make their relationship work despite their differing desires.
The conversations they have especially while in bed are all too real and familiar.
I haven’t been this smiley over a relationship in a while.
