Monday’s second movie was Saint-Martyrs-des-Damnes, a French film from first-time director Robin Aubert. This has been my favorite so far, and the fact that it’s Aubert’s directing and writing debut is all the more impressive. I really hope this movie gets some good exposure; I think it goes into wider release next month in Quebec, so at least an eventual DVD release seems reasonable. It’s one I’d probably add to my collection.
The little summary I posted before the Fest is a decent enough setup, so I won’t repeat it here. The film is populated by some really strange characters: the maks-wearing mechanic, the creepy (twin?) sisters that who appear and disappear at the hotel, the skanky old waitress/owner of the diner and her mentally-challenged son, plus the menacing mayor and his two thugs who look like they’re stuck in the 50s. Add in the look & feel of the movie, and you’ve got yourself a French twinner for Twin Peaks.
The atmosphere created by Aubert is just as big a part of the film as the memorable characters and the mysterious storyline. David Lynch-ian, indeed. Even with a lot of outdoor scenes in bright sunlight, it always maintained a creepy feeling … maybe because daylight was no protection for the main character against the oddness of the town.
The major difference from your typical Lynch fare is that the story is pretty much resolved by the end with everything explained away. Wrapping everything up “nicely” seemed a little forced towards the end and likely takes away from the mystery for future viewings. But that’s a minor complaint with an otherwise exceptional movie.
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