Innocence (2000) : Synopsis

SYNOPSIS
Retired organist and music teacher, Andreas Borg (TINGWELL), discovers that his first true love, Claire (BLAKE), lives in the same city as he does. Fifty years after they shared a passionate love affair in post-war Belgium - when he was a young student of music and she was the daughter of an Australian diplomat - Andreas writes her a letter.

Claire hesitatingly responds to his plea to meet again, and it soon becomes evident that their love has not faded. Nothing feels as if it has changed; yet everything inevitably has. Knowing that time is precious, they embark on an affair as reckless, intense and tempestuous as when they were young lovers.

Andreas has been a widower for thirty years. Claire shares a bed with her husband John (NORRIS), in a marriage that has dried up and emptied of all passion and zest - but which the reunion with Andreas has finally brought back to her.

Bewildered, and overcome with jealousy, John does all in his power to halt the madness. But, torn between her affection for her husband and the passionate love of her youth, Claire decides to follow her heart, regardless of the consequences.

A poignant homage to the human spirit, INNOCENCE is tragicomic tale of love and lust, of tenderness and hope. A passionate reminder to live life to the full.

Best Film, Montreal International Film Festival, 2000
Best Film, St Tropez International Film Festival, 2000
Best Film, Vlissengen Film Festival, Holland 2000
Best Film, CineVegas Film Festival 2000, USA
Best Film, If Awards 2000, Australia

FIPRESCI Critics Award at Taomina International Film Festival 2000, Sicily
People Choice Award, Toronto International Film Festival, 2000
Best Actress, If Awards 2000
Best Editing, If Awards 2000
Best Sound Design, If Awards 2000