A superbly talented cast can’t save this mediocre and predictable script.
Vincent Machot knows his life by heart. He shares between his hairdressing salon, his cousin, his cat, and his too invasive mother. But life sometimes surprises even the most cautious - He meets up with Rosalie Blum, a mysterious and lonely woman, he is convinced to have already met her. But where? Intrigued, he decides to follow her everywhere, hoping to learn more. He did not suspect that this spinning takes him on an adventure full of surprises, where he will discover fantastic characters as endearing. One thing is certain: Vincent Machot's life will change.
There’s something really nice about how Julien Rappeneau captures the opening scenes. The way he depicts the mundanities of life is superb, there’s a tired, monotonous look to the filming and it’s brilliant. His use of light and shade, and music all contributes to this tonality. However, as soon as we are onto our story we lose this unique quality that so quickly captured my attention. The script tries to be clever and it’s not terrible, but it also is as quirky and unique as first impressions. Despite my nonchalance for the majority of the film the ending, which I won’t spoil is thoroughly touching.
Alice Isaaz is one of the most promising actors to appear on the screen in a long time. She’s a scene stealer and clearly one to watch in the future. Noémie Lvovsky and Kyan Khojandi are also brilliant in their roles.
Overall this French film is sold, but not exceptionally as I had hoped.
Rosalie Blum is released on Boxing Day.
3 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Palace Films
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