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With minimal dialog, performances are anchored in subtle expressions. And only the two lead characters register at all. Even in a diva role like Cristina, Cotillard skilfully layers a sense of pain underneath the hauteur. Meanwhile, Pacini gives Jeanne a restless curiosity that spins in unexpected ways as she watches and emulates Cristina, both rattled and quietly thrilled whenever she has to interact with her. For Jeanne, the ice queen represents the fuzzy memories of the mother she only barely knew. But where this goes is more horrific than comforting.

Along the way, there are hints as to why the metaphors in this film-within-a-film premise feel so sharply pointed. And clever touches along the way create mesmerising parallels between these women, both of whom grew up without parents. A sense of their difficult childhoods reverberates in the silences between them. But because Hadzihalilovic emphasises atmospherics and emotions over any real details, the film feels so wispy that we never quite get a grip on it.

themes, language, violence

23.Sep.25

Even with such an outrageously broad filmmaking approach, performances retain a deadpan charm, remaining skilfully understated amid the nuttiness. With his soulful eyes, Perez Biscayart is wonderfully likeable as enfant terrible Remo, who is simply being himself in a world where everyone wants him to be something else. His curious, hopeful perspective is magnetic. By contrast, Corbero gives Abril a more confident demeanour, but she too is grappling with her future. And it Gimenez Cacho adds an unnerving kick, as casual control freak Ruben lives in his own constructed reality.

Beneath the colourful surfaces, the film explores some powerful themes in the lives of characters who are trying to free themselves from some sort of everyday oppression. Both Remo and Abril are straining against identity issues and expectations regarding gender and sexuality. Knowing they have each other gives them strength as they face each challenge. Throughout this odyssey, both are reborn as different people, more honest in their skin. And even this plays out with unexpected textures.

themes, suspense

7.Aug.25

At 71, Chan is on peak form, mixing his cheeky personality and inventively flashy action moves with grittier-than-usual character. So his connection with Zhang's thoughtful, quick-thinking Qiuguo has a realistic emotional kick. Meanwhile, Leung gives Fu an almost Shakespearean resolve, an old man who still has skills but wants his boys to take up the mantle, if he can trust them with it. Chan's energy and Leung's gravitas come together in several terrific moments, capped by a staggering knife fight in a crawl space.

Running through everything is the idea that both old and young are badly underestimated. So Wong, Fu, Qiuguo and others have unexpected gifts at observation and hand-to-hand battle. Yang's script also knowingly plays with technology, frequently removing it to force characters to rely on their own wits. And the jittery direction makes the most of the terrific locations and spectacular choreography. Finally, outtakes in the credits add some humorous background before a post-credit scene reminds us that this story isn't finished yet.

themes, language, violence

23.Sep.25