Dans Paris

REVIEW
An abrupt change of pace from Honoré, a director noted as much for controversy as for staggering originality, his latest is a light, nuanced and easily accessible take on a serious subject. When Paul’s tormented and lustful relationship with his girlfriend Anna comes apart at the seams — portrayed through a beautifully telling series of vignettes — he sinks into a deep depression. Paul moves back home into a small apartment with his juvenile but lovable brother, Jonathan (Louis Garrel) and his cranky father, Mirko (Guy Marchand). After being subjected to ridicule, arguments and laughable attempts at helping him, he sinks into bed, refusing to emerge, even when his divorced mother pays a visit to help her ex-husband coax Paul out of his despondency. It is in the simple details that Honoré finds power in the film. Though managing to retain the feel of stark French realism, he employs risky techniques involving music, editing and space that give the film a playful unpredictability that enhances its emotional landscape. His daring handling of the material pays off in a singular cinematic vision that fully comes into its own by the end of its astounding ninety minutes. (French with English subtitles)