In 1995, they won our hearts with the honesty of Before Sunrise. In 2004, that resonant magic was revisited in Before Sunset. Now, in the eagerly anticipated third chapter in the star-crossed tale of Jesse and Celine, Richard Linklater fast-forwards to nine years after the last meeting in what just may be the ending to the perfect trilogy.

Witty heartfelt dialogue seamlessly mixes with signature long takes to bring this couple to yet another crossroads in a twisting but passionate relationship. As Jesse and Celine have matured, so has their bond and candor, as familiarity, life’s ups and downs and time itself add refinement and a fresh lyrical quality to this most recent encounter.

Written by Linklater and leads Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke, the film casually and intelligently touches on matters big and small while the challenges of this relationship are spun with brilliant honesty, wit and humor. Richly captured by Christos Voudouris, the picturesque streets of Greece serve as the latest backdrop to this beautifully crafted love story. Linklater and his collaborators have clearly saved their best for last.

—Genna Terranova