“Staying Vertical” is a surreal exploration of a man’s journey through the French countryside. He encounters a cast of eccentric characters and faces challenges that test his very existence. With dreamlike sequences and poetic imagery, this film is a visual feast for the senses. Ultimately, it is a meditation on the human condition, and how we must strive to stay upright even in the face of overwhelming odds.
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Review
Staying Vertical: A Tale of Life and Loss
Magical realism is an art form that few can master, but French filmmaker Alain Guiraudie seems to do it with ease in his movie “Staying Vertical”. This enigmatic and alluring film paints a vivid picture of the French countryside with its sweeping vistas and majestic mountains while exploring the mysteries of life.
The story follows Léo (Damien Bonnard), a filmmaker, as he wanders through the countryside searching for inspiration for his next project. He meets Marie (India Hair), a young shepherdess, whom he decides to help deliver her baby despite her initial resistance.
The plot thickens when Léo becomes entangled with Jean-Louis (Raphaël Thiéry), a hermit who tames wolves in the wilderness. As Léo tries to navigate his way through these complex relationships, he is forced to confront his own demons and come to terms with his place in the world.
The film takes us on a journey that explores themes of identity, sexuality, parenthood, loss, and grief. It is a thought-provoking meditation on life that moves between the real world and dreamscapes, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Guiraudie’s directorial mastery captures this essence beautifully.
The cast of “Staying Vertical” delivers exceptional performances that lend credibility to their characters. Damien Bonnard’s portrayal of Léo is nuanced and sensitive while India Hair’s Marie is both strong-willed and vulnerable. Raphaël Thiéry’s Jean-Louis brings an earthy depth to the role as he navigates life on his own terms.
One particular scene that stands out is when Léo takes his newborn son out for a walk in the woods. The cinematography captures both the beauty and feeling of isolation in these vast spaces as if it were shot by Gabriel Garcia Marquez himself. The score by Montparnasse adds to the dreamlike quality of the film, drawing us deeper into its world.
Despite its critical acclaim and festival success, “Staying Vertical” has also faced criticism for its explicit sexual content. Some viewers felt it was unnecessary and distracting from the central themes of the film. However, others saw it as a vital aspect of the story that adds to the complexity of these characters.
One significant aspect that makes this film unique is how it breaks away from traditional storytelling conventions. Instead, it embraces ambiguity and leaves interpretation up to the viewer. It is a testament to Guiraudie’s ability as a director and writer, elevating “Staying Vertical” to be one of France’s most innovative films.
In conclusion, “Staying Vertical” is an unforgettable film that captures both the beauty and complexity of life. With its stunning cinematography, masterful direction, and haunting score, this movie will stay with you long after you leave the cinema hall. It may not be for everyone due to its explicit content, but those who take a chance on it will be rewarded with an experience like no other.
As Gabriel Garcia Marquez once said: “What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” “Staying Vertical” will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on anyone who watches it, shaping their memories forever more.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 98
- Release : 2016-08-24
- Genre : Drama
- Cast : Damien Bonnard as Léo, India Hair as Marie, Raphaël Thiéry as Jean-Louis, Christian Bouillette as Marcel, Basile Meilleurat as Yoan
- Crew : François-Renaud Labarthe as Costume Design, Rémi Burah as Co-Producer, Sylvie Pialat as Producer, Jean-Christophe Hym as Editor, Stéphane Batut as Casting
- Popularity 5.503
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Les films du Worso, ARTE France Cinéma
- Summary : Screenwriter Leo is searching for the wolf in the south of France. During a scouting excursion he is seduced by Marie, a free-spirited and dynamic shepherdess. Nine months later she gives birth to their child. Suffering from post-natal depression and with no faith in Leo, who comes and goes without warning, Marie abandons both of them. Leo finds himself alone, with a baby to care for.
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