It was a day of two RCC events, with the Muppets in the afternoon creating Christmas Carol cheer and our evening tense legal drama providing serious food for thought. The discussion group for French film Anatomy of a Fall (2023) was small but enthusiastic. The jury’s out whether we should have a more festive film for grown-ups at this time of year.
Although I enjoyed this compelling film, I have a bee in my bonnet over the choice of a sighted actor for the part of the young blind/partially sighted Daniel. Sorry, but he doesn’t present as having a genuine visual difficulty. An opportunity lost to show diversity in casting. The notion of using a blind character to represent ‘blind justice’ is for me an uncomfortable stereotype. I suspect British directors would do it differently.
There was a range of views about the plotline. We all had our own theories about the truth of what happened and that is no surprise. The director, Justine Trier, didn’t even tell the actors whodunnit. You do get pulled in different directions. The film for us was about “the nature of doubt” and was a “masterpiece in misdirection.” We agreed that it was hard not to be drawn in and we were left on the edge of our seats.
This theme was echoed in one of the shorts, which showed how emotional videos can be used in US courtrooms to present those convicted in the best light and sway the jury.
Messi the dog deserved his Palme Dog Cannes award for his playing dead scene. Bien fait!
Praise was given to the camera work, particularly the powerful reaction shots. We were intrigued by the thrilling courtroom scenes and got a glimpse into the French legal system, which has no jury. The cross questioning was très intéressant.
Here’s to 2025. Thanks to Gordon, our discussion lead, for all the hard work he puts in for us.
Anne.
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