Technology in the modern era is a rather divisive issue, particularly when it comes to social media and new means of communication. For some, the idea of using social networks to communicate via long distance can be a gateway toward new relationships. However, for others it is nothing more than a distancing act.

Of course, the real test of the power of technology to connect us is romantic relationships. Can modern technology help lovers sustain their relationship over long distance?

While this very question is not the core issue in Carlos Marques-Marcet's "10.000 Km," technology in some ways becomes the third wheel in this compelling relationship of two.

As the film opens in a Barcelona apartment, the viewer is introduced to Alex (Natalia Tena) and Sergi (David Verdaguer) consummating their love. It is the height of ecstasy for the couple and moments after Sergi's climax, the two start contemplating the idea of having a child. That of course changes within minutes when Alex receives an email about an opportunity to do a residency in California. The bliss of just minutes earlier turns into tension as the two discuss the challenges their relationship will face for the ensuing year of the program.

All the while, Marques-Marcet and cinematographer Dagmar Weaver-Madsen capture the action in a now-famous uninterrupted 20 minute take. The camera moves through the space effortlessly, but there is a sense of claustrophobia in the space, not only establishing the feeling the audience will endure for the next 90 minutes, but also establishing the tension that will rise between these two.

Once Sergi has agreed to let Alex go, the screen cuts to black, we see the title and then we are in first person following Alex into her new apartment. From here on, the two lovers will only interact via digital media, with their relationship growing more strained.

At one point, the two attempt to have virtual sex, with Alex clearly preparing the experience carefully. While she initially gets what she wants, the detachment between the two grows ever greater as she realizes that Sergi's own pleasure is not a function of her, but of him.

Another scene cuts between closeups of the couple looking into the computer; however, as their situation grows more problematic, we only see their digital projections on the screen.

Arguably the most memorable moment of the film comes when neither character is on screen. Sergi is checking up on Alex via her latest updates on Facebook. Instead of showing Sergi, the camera zeroes in on the profile and through his actions we infer a great deal about his emotions. He clicks on some pictures of his girlfriend with other men and insistently goes back to them.

Without giving too much away, Marques-Marcet does a tremendous job of closing his film in a structural mirror of his opening -- another uninterrupted take in which the characters do their utmost to relive the magic of earlier.

The fact that the entire film essentially takes place in two locations (interiors no less) adds to the feeling of claustrophobia. The walls seem to be closing in on the characters, with the camera's focal length expanding as the isolation increases.

Tena and Verdaguer are the only people in the entire movie, but they have tremendous chemistry and carry the film on their own rather well. Verdaguer comes off as a stern, frustrated man, his smiles or levity often coming off as forced; this works brilliantly for the character of Sergi as the audience can feel the loneliness absorbing him. Not only has he been abandoned by his girlfriend, but she is thriving without him; he on the other hand remains rather fruitless in his work. Tena imbues Alex with a greater deal of energy and joy, but there is also a sense of growing disappointment as the narrative progresses. Once her sense of excitement whittles down, the film develops a heavier tone and the viewer can sense the foundations of the relationship start to crumble.

"10.000 Km" might not amount to more than a cautionary tale on distance in the digital present, but it is a film that is executed with conviction and innovation.