Categories: cinema
Date: 17 March 2008 01:32:11
Two very interesting films to end my viewing of this year's French Film Festival. I was very happy with the films I saw.
The Secret is an utterly absorbing film about a Jewish family in post-WWII Paris. François, a young boy, deeply feels the dissapointment of his father in particular. It is only when he reaches his mid teenage years that he discovers the truth of his fmaily's actions during WWII from his physiotherapist who was present during those years. We are then taken back through history, with occasional glimpses of the future [in B&W: the past is in glorious colour], to uncover this secret. Superb performances by all, beautiful cinematography, and a truly great storyline.
The Price to Pay was a rather entertaining comedy about relationships, sex and money: a man, on advice from his chaffeur who is undergoing similar struggles. withholds money from his non-working wife until she will give him what he wants -- sex. From this, some extraordinarily funny moments proceed, interspersed with moments of sadness and pain. But the humour keeps this movie bouncing along: and I enjoyed the ride.
Next up: the 2008 Sydney Arab Film Festival.