Film Reviews: A Diverse Selection

This week’s cinematic offerings present a varied tapestry of genres and narratives, ranging from the stark realities of terrorism in Tunisia to the eccentric world of classical music and the absurdities of global politics. Our reviewers at Le Figaro offer their insights into these new releases, providing a critical compass for discerning moviegoers.

Les Enfants rouges: A Tragedy of Innocence

Lotfi Achour’s "Les Enfants rouges" (Red Children) is a harrowing drama inspired by the true story of Mabrouk Soltani, a young shepherd murdered by Islamic terrorists in 2015. The film centers on Nizar, a 16-year-old shepherd in the rugged hills of Tunisia, and his 14-year-old cousin, Achraf. Achraf admires Nizar’s knowledge and skill as he guides his flock. Their idyllic existence is shattered when they are captured by a group of Islamist terrorists. Nizar is falsely accused of being an informant and brutally decapitated in front of Achraf.

Achraf’s life is spared, but with a horrifying condition: he must deliver Nizar’s head to his parents in their village. The film explores Achraf’s traumatic journey, haunted by the ghost of Nizar, a constant, radiant presence. Achour underscores the tragic reality that Muslims are often the primary victims of jihadist violence. The film unflinchingly depicts the psychological impact of terrorism and the loss of innocence.

Le Figaro gives "Les Enfants rouges" a rating of 3/4, acknowledging its powerful storytelling and its ability to shed light on a painful and often overlooked reality. The reviewer notes the film’s emotional intensity and its commitment to portraying the human cost of extremism. While the subject matter is undeniably difficult, the film serves as an important reminder of the devastating consequences of ideological violence.

Les Musiciens: The Harmony of Discord

Grégory Magne’s "Les Musiciens" (The Musicians) is a comedy-drama that revolves around Astrid Thompson, the daughter of a music-loving entrepreneur. Astrid is determined to fulfill her late father’s dream: to gather four Stradivarius violins for a unique concert, broadcast worldwide from a grand manor. She manages to recruit four of the most talented instrumentalists, but their egos and prejudices clash, making it impossible for them to play together harmoniously.

With only seven days left before the concert, Astrid is desperate. She seeks the help of Charlie Beaumont, the composer of the piece they are meant to perform. The film delves into the world of classical music, exploring the complexities of artistic collaboration and the pursuit of perfection.

Le Figaro awards "Les Musiciens" a 3/4 rating, praising the performances of the actors and Magne’s direction. The reviewer highlights the film’s insightful exploration of human relationships and its ability to find moments of joy and humor even amidst the challenges of artistic creation. The film is described as a parable about the search for harmony, both in music and in life. Magne’s skillful direction captures the nuances of the characters and the passion that drives them.

Rumours, nuit blanche au sommet: Political Satire Gone Wild

Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson’s "Rumours, nuit blanche au sommet" (Rumours, Sleepless Night at the Summit) is a comedy that satirizes international politics. Seven influential world leaders gather at a G7 summit in a remote German castle. Surrounded by cameras and journalists, they grapple with an international crisis and attempt to draft a provisional declaration.

The German Chancellor leads the delegation to an archaeological site where a bog body is unearthed. As night falls, strange occurrences begin to unfold. The staff disappears, cell phones lose reception, and the politicians find themselves lost in a mysterious and perilous forest. Their nightmarish wanderings intensify as the film veers into the realm of fantasy and kitsch horror.

Le Figaro gives "Rumours, nuit blanche au sommet" a rating of 2.5/4. The reviewer commends the film’s audacious blend of laughter and horror, its exposure of the flaws in democratic systems, and its critique of the emptiness of international summits. The film is lauded as a refreshing and liberating exercise in satire, particularly relevant in a time when democracy is perceived to be under threat.

Les Arènes: The Dark Side of Football

Camille Perton’s "Les Arènes" (The Arenas) is a drama that explores the cutthroat world of football. Brahim, an 18-year-old with dreams of becoming a professional footballer, is represented by his cousin Mehdi. Mehdi is eager to secure Brahim’s first professional contract with Lyon, rejecting a lucrative offer from a larger club. The arrival of a foreign agent, Francis, threatens to disrupt the bond between the cousins.

The film delves into the often-unseen dynamics between agents and players, revealing the commercial pressures and ethical compromises that exist beyond the playing field.

Le Figaro awards "Les Arènes" a rating of 2/4. The reviewer criticizes the film’s heavy-handedness, particularly its reliance on an overly dramatic musical score. The film’s attempts to portray disillusionment within the football industry are deemed less compelling.

Un monde merveilleux: A Robotic Comedy Gone Astray

Giulio Callegari’s "Un monde merveilleux" (A Wonderful World) is a comedy-drama set in a near future where domestic robots are commonplace. Max, a former French teacher and outspoken anti-robot activist, struggles to make ends meet with her daughter Paula. They resort to petty theft, leading them to kidnap a T-0 robot from an elder care facility. They quickly discover that the robot is an obsolete model with little value.

Adding to Max’s woes, she loses custody of Paula, who is placed in a foster home. Max and her irritating robot embark on a mission to retrieve Paula.

Le Figaro gives "Un monde merveilleux" a rating of 1/4. The reviewer critiques the film’s shortcomings. The film struggles to find its comedic footing, and Blanche Gardin’s performance is deemed disappointing. The film simply fails to capitalize on its intriguing premise.