i saw the souvenir again with commentary. during the first watch i was thinking how strange that the girl couldn't see, and then couldn't resist, and also played a part in a relationship with an addict who stole from her and lied all the time. it was like she was possessed, yet also like she was collaborating on a film project, and when i saw the commentary i learned that it was the director's story, but also a film 30 years later, revisiting and reimagining the story. 
my first reaction was how could she be so dumb. and then i revisited some of my relationships in the past and i was the same way. something gets a hold on you, reality is in thrall, some strange collaboration takes place. it's some kind of unconscious drama playing out. we have to go along. 
the title comes from the fragonard painting the souvenir. the addict sends the girl the picture, then shows her the real one, the painting. i have to look at that again, and maybe the scene once more. to note their different interpretations.
i wonder what the real addict if he's alive would think of the film? how would it compare to his memory. would he remember an entirely different film? that's likely, but i bet he'd be transfixed by this one. 

do you like her?
i love her.
she's just received word from her lover, and she's carving his initial into the tree.
she looks sad.
i think she looks determined.
mm-hmm. (she smiles.)
and very much in love.
very much in love.

it's strange. i felt sort of compelled and frightened and at home in the souvenir and though 36 people are waiting for me to return it i may have to watch it again tonight after rumination and the director's commentary. some things have to be looked at again and again, and still we may be sort of transfixed and mystified.