By Roger Costa
WHEN FALL IS COMING
Francois Ozon is unstoppable. One of France’s most prolific and accomplished filmmakers, Ozon is a passionate cinema-worker with an impressive filmography that proves he is among the best world cinema directors. He is a master in exploring human relationships, bonds and desires, while deeply unveiling his characters and creating a relatable response from the audience. Ozon is also a subtle provocateur as well as a very elegant and intellectual observer- he treats sexuality and crime with the same sophistication.
With his new film, according to IMDB “When Fall is Coming” is his 24th feature film, Ozon continues his efficient journey in exploring the outcast in the persona of Michelle, an octogenarian living a normal routine in the French countryside. In the opening sequence Michelle is seen at church, and next she’s devotedly preparing meals to receive her daughter Valerie’s and grandson’s visit from Paris. But things are not exactly what they seem. The difficult relationship between mother and daughter is evident, and when a mushroom food poisoning takes Valerie to the hospital tensions escalate. Meanwhile Michelle cultivates a healthy and confident friendship with Marie-Claude, whose son, Vincent, has just been released from jail.
Ozon builds up the narrative as a mysterious dramatic thriller filled with twists and intriguing themes. When a dark part of the past comes to surface, putting everyone’s morals and virtues at risk, the film turns into an unpredictably gripping, puzzle-like multi-character study, revealing important clues but not entirely. He will let us guess, and that is fascinating.
Without giving any spoils, the film will be more appreciated without further comments on its plot. The director crafts an admirable work of suspense while accurately exploring societal expectations and the complexities of morality.
Ozon also works with a fantastic cast. Actress Helene Vincent, who was nominated for the Cesar Awards, excels as the heroine Michelle, delivering a passionate and vibrant performance. Pierre Lottin is impressive as the trouble-maker Vincent, while Josiane Balasko brings some serenity as his supportive mother. The great Ludivine Sagnier rounds the cast as the depressive daughter, and young Garlan Erlos is a revelation as grandson Lucas.
Intimate, delightfully dark and intricated, Ozon is on top of his game with this provocative drama ready to stir up some conversation.
(A Music Box Films Release. Opens Friday, April 4th at Film Forum NYC. Go to https://filmforum.org/ for details).
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