So I’m definitely in Canada. I had poutine for dinner. If you don’t know what that is, click here.
Today’s films were just OK. I saw three movies…though only 2 of them were part of TIFF.
First off, I saw Robert Redford’s film THE CONSPIRATOR – a story about Mary Surratt (the first woman to ever be executed in the USA – having been convicted for taking part in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln). The story is intriguing…and its themes are still quite contemporary (government wanting people to remain scared…so as to be more obedient & the need to publicly prosecute someone in order to “restore” a sense of balance after tragedy). Though well-done in many aspects, there seemed to be something missing. Robin Wright gives a great performance, and I’ll watch James McAvoy in just about anything. All said and done, I think this film will be liked…but it won’t be a huge hit.
Next, I strayed from the festival and went to an “Underground Cinema” screening of the new film from Christophe Honore – MAN AT BATH (director of LOVE SONG, MA MERE, & DAN PARIS). This film about two lovers who are splitting up – but can’t stop caring about one another – is sexually charged but strained due to a weak central performance. The performance of Francois Sagat is so off that he misses at almost every step. In addition, the chemistry between the two main characters is almost entirely absent. That said, the film has its moments…and every moment with Chiara Mastroianni is wonderful. (Due to nudity and language, I won’t post the trailer here – you’ll have to look it up yourself on youtube – where you’ll have to subscribe in order to prove your age.) I think the trailer, having only seen it after the feature, makes the film look much more interesting and less tedious.
Lastly, I saw the world premiere of OUR TIME WILL COME – directed by Romain Gavras (son of Costa-Gavras). This was Romain’s first feature film – though he has directed some famous music videos. The film is about a red-headed boy who feels alienated and shunned by society…and how he comes to feel (with the aid of a new friend played by Vincent Cassel) that redheads need to stick together in order to rise above the oppression. This film about outcasts (or simply feeling like outcasts), is a bit absurdist. Whereas there are some great moments with really fresh and fun performances, the ultimate feeling I got from the film was “Huh?” Violence in the 3rd act was upsetting and I really didn’t get the point. The person who introduced the film said, “This is one of the ‘what the f@#k films.'” He went on to articulate that this type of film is rare and welcomed…and nothing like pretentious arthouse films. I disagree. I think a film like this is even more pretentious in its “F*#! You, I don’t care if you don’t get it, I’m an arist” attitude. (Added note: The photography is lovely.)
I’m excited about tomorrow. I’m scheduled to see the new films from John Cameron Mitchell, Julian Schnabel, and Susanne Bier.
Take care!
