The Animal Kingdom - 2023
Quick Summary
In a world plagued by a wave of mutations that are gradually transforming some humans into animals, François does everything in his power to save his wife, who has been affected by this mysterious phenomenon. As the region becomes populated by creatures of a new kind, he embarks Emile, their 16-year-old son, on a quest that will change their lives forever.
My Thoughts
This is an excellent film of exceptional quality, on a par with very good American films, which is not bad for a French film.
This film has everything that French cinema usually lacks: a well-crafted, intelligent script, beautiful images and emotion.
The narrative is fairly classic and resembles the average American disaster movie, yet it's sprinkled with so much more. First and foremost, there's an original, well-crafted idea, brilliantly developed to highlight the paranoia and excesses caused by an epidemic such as Covid-19. But there's also a script full of emotion, which, combined with Thomas Cailley's touch, will make you leave the cinema with a dust in your eye.
The images are equally magical, immersing us in an exceptional atmosphere. This film could have quickly turned ridiculous, but the "creatures" are very well realized and the special effects successful.
The actors are also very good. Romain Duris takes a little while to get going, and the beginning is a bit like a play, a little heavy-handed, but you soon become absorbed in his character. Paul Kircher is also excellent. Adèle Exarchopoulos is also very good in her supporting role.
To Watch or Not to Watch
This film is a masterpiece, a must-see, preferably in the cinema to enjoy the exceptional images!