-Story-
I’m really not sure how to begin reviewing this film. I know I thought it was a really great movie. But how the heck do you explain something like this. I suppose I’ll just start by trying to explain the plot a bit.
The setting, the French countryside; the year, 1765. The story follows the tale of , a nobleman, the Chevalier de Fronsac, as he is sent by the French king to the Gevaudan province. He has been ordered to investigate the mysterious killing that have been plaguing the area, and disprove the rumours that there is a terrible beast loose killing the innocent countrymen. Some of you out there might be thinking wait a second I’ve heard this story before, and if you haven’t well, guess what. It’s based on a true story. The Beast of Gevaudan, is apparently a oft told campfire story in France, but I doubt it looked anything like this tale. Our protagonist, an investigator, naturalist, philosopher, (martial arts expert), and general renaissance man is joined by his mysterious Native American ‘brother’ Mani. Who is also apparently an expert martial artist. The plot thickens through a complex series of events, and the investigation story subdues into a horror story, a thriller, a dramatic love story, a epic period film, to finally come together at the end for a crazy matrix-style action film. Confused yet? Just wait till you try and understand the actual plotline.
Other than this films proclivity to jump genres with blinding speed, the story is really pretty fascinating. And once you settle back into a sense of, “I’m probably not going to understand this film until I see it multiple times” It’s really quite good.
3.5/5This film is visually stunning. I might even hazard to say it’s a masterpiece. The lighting, the cinematography, the costumes. I suppose a few of the effects (namely the beast) could have been a bit better. But really, come on, it’s French! They don’t have money for stuff like that. The most amazing aspect of the look had to be the setting though. The French countryside is beautiful, and sweeping. The fog is chilling, and the old stone majestic buildings, obviously quite real, fit to a tee. Even the few constructed sets were excellent, surreal almost, but somehow fitting.
A few special mentions have to be made for this film. The cinematographer, Dan Laustsen, brought a really beautiful an ominous feel to the film. The tone is mysterious and chilling, very good. Also the action scenes were really great. Not that I really find it very plausible that there were so many expert martial artists in 18th century France; but let’s not worry about that. The fight scenes are simply amazing. Reminiscent of the Matrix and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, these fight employ a variety of techniques from wire work to slow motion/speed up film, to use of trampolines (it’s really done), and more. Of course These guys are excellent fighters too. Very impressive on all accounts.
4.5/5The acting in this film is very good. Not great, but it is mostly speaking an action film. Well, maybe more a drama with a fair bit of action. Regardless, Samuel Le Bihan plays Grégoire de Fronsac, our hero, and does an admirable job. The real treat of this film was watching Mark Dacascos of Crying Freeman fame as Mani. He is really a fantastic actor to watch. And I’m not just saying that because he is shaped like he’s been chiselled out of granite. He is an excellent fighter, and really gave the film so much life. I wish I could say I’ve heard of this director before. He’s a Frenchman, Christophe Gans, and has made around four films. His last being Crying Freeman, and his next an epic called The Adventurer. I did really enjoy this film though, and will gladly go and see his others when I get the chance. Not really much else to say, good work overall. Weird but good.
3.5/5This is a very strange and beautiful film. The dramatic moments are excellent, and the fight scenes are cool. It’s probably best for someone who likes a wide range of films as it jumps around a lot; but even if you’re only after the action, it’s worth it. Give it a shot, you’ll probably never see a more convoluted film.
