In her impressive debut film Julian, young Brussels director Cato Kusters brings the love story of Fleur and Julian to life. Based on Fleur Pierets’ book, the film follows their passionate plan to get married in 22 countries where it is possible for two women to do so – a dream that is abruptly thwarted when Julian is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Kusters tells the story in a non-linear way, balancing between great love and deep loss. Intimate home videos, subtle silences and a thoughtful visual language make Julian a vulnerable, moving film. Its strength lies in the outstanding performances of Laurence Roothooft and Nina Meurisse, who make it palpable how a glance can be the beginning of a lifelong bond – and how devastating the emptiness is when that glance is gone.