Review of A Very Long Engagement (2004) by Volodymyr L — 18 Feb 2009

Just a treat! An eccentric and inspiring epic about a small limp woman who sets out on a quest for her fiancé, allegedly court-marshaled and killed on the French-German frontline in 1917, to unravel the knot of lies and contingencies and find out the truth.

Loyal to himself, Jeunet builds up the story (both thematically and aesthetically) from little jigsaw-puzzle-like fragments, making the film every bit as fascinating and unreal as his 'Amelie of Montmartre'.

Without lapsing into repulsive naturalism of expensive Hollywood dramas, the director's rendition of historical details and the overall verisimilitude of reconstruction are remarkable. The cameraman does an excellent job as well.

Even despite the fact that the movie lacks suspense and interest at some points, Audrey Tautou delivers a dazzling performance and shows her many talents. If you are up for a movie night, go for it without hesitation!