On this page: BRIEF HISTORY OF A FAMILY | THE EMPIRE | PEACOCK

< < F O R E I G N > >

Performances are internalised, which allows us to see into the thoughts and feelings of characters who carefully choose how and when they will express themselves. At the centre, Sun gives Shuo an observant intelligence that can almost be read as passively predatory, although we never question his motives. Lin's Wei is a more complex bundle of emotions, kind but wary and ultimately jealous of Shuo's closeness with the parents he is trying to rebel against. And Guo and Zu also reveal their characters' thoughts using small textures.

Because this is a drama that plays out like a thriller, there's a sense that something momentous could happen at any point. Indeed, several heart-stopping things take place, but they're also staged through this askance viewpoint that demands our involvement. We are continually asking ourselves what we might do in each situation, but the story's twists and turns are impossible to predict. So the film's ultimate haunting message will depend on what we bring to it.

themes, language, violence

10.Mar.25

Actors cleverly give these characters an otherworldly stiffness. Vlieghe and Vartolomei hold the film's centre as eternal enemies who have a terrific sense of lusty chemistry, which pointedly makes it difficult to remain at odds. Diving fully into the absurdity, Cottin is inhabited by the 0 queen, who wants to see things firsthand. And Luchini is the man the 1 ruler Belsebuth occupies so he can visit the Wain in person.

All of this is perhaps a bit too pointed regarding religion and morality, but the ideas are big enough to get us thinking even as we enjoy the silliness. The 0s' master plan is to invade the entire earth, ridding each person of their evil nature. But the 1s are confident of victory because the arrogance of the 0s blinds them to the truth. In other words, despite Dumont's tongue-in-cheek tone, this is actually a serious exploration of human nature. Which gives the nutty story and characters a proper kick.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

25.Feb.25

It helps that Schuch is so likeable, giving Matthias hapless charm in his passive private life and also as he takes charge in his job. So watching the borders blur in his mind is both funny and moving, especially as he tries to work out what other people think. His interaction with Richter's Sophia is infused with his affection and her frustration. Schuch and Eggesbo skilfully build bristling chemistry that never feels promising. And a range of side characters continually provide pointed gags.

The title refers to a creature that's all show, and film indeed looks gorgeous, from the sleek lines of Matthias' modern home to the naked yoga retreat where he tries to get some clarity. This is a fiendishly smart exploration of how who we are is largely defined by what we do, where we are and who we're hanging out with, rather than what's inside us. And it's a reminder that we need to continually check in with ourselves to make sure we don't get lost.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

13.Mar.25