Review of Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013) by Ruslan M — 10 Dec 2013

Blue is the Warmest Color was the 2013 Palme d'Or winner at the Cannes Film Festival. It has been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny but mainly for reasons which are likely to detract from any possibility of major awards in the run up to and including the Academy Awards, perhaps unfairly. Namely the candid portrayal of lesbian sex and the allegations of poor treatment of the two lead players by the director.

Firstly, a lot has been made of the sex scenes and while they are significant within the context of the plot, predictably the reasons for the controversy are somewhat unrelated. It is not simply that the admittedly few scenes in question are graphic but there is an intensity which effectively reflects the relationship between Adele and Emma. This is an intensity which goes deeper than cheap thrills, and it culminates in the ferocious break-up scene. Without the sex scenes the actual performance and dialogue may not have the impact that it does.

The camerawork is often intimate, the close ups and long scenes scrutinise the drama, it is no surprise that a film of 3 hours is willing to take its time telling the story. There also is an almost entire absence of non-diegetic sound throughout which only accentuates the closeness and realism for which Abdel Kechiche is striving. Adèle Exarchopoulos has the natural looks and demeanour to convey and illicit emotion without speaking any dialogue. There is a palpable innocence and naivety to the performance. She is equally effective when she and Léa Seydoux are going at it, verbally I mean. She is surely one to look out for over the next few years. Seydoux is also tremendous but her role is very much the supporting role.

This has certainly been one of the most provocative films of the year but it is one which has resonated for the right reasons.