Review of Delicatessen (1991) by Joyce M — 09 Apr 2011

Jeunet brings his charming sense of humour to the most unlikely subject of cannibalism. While much darker in overall tone than Jeunet's other films, most likely due to the influence of Marc Caro, there is still that wonderful childlike innocence running through the film, here embodied by Dominique Pinon and Marie-Laure Dougnac.

It's nice to see Pinon in a role other than surly and he does a fantastic job of playing the carefree and clueless protagonist. This film makes brilliant use of sound, the two scene with the squeaky box spring are a touch of genius.

The film looks fantastic with wonderful use of the warm side of the spectrum, all yellows and reds, and it's beautifully lit. The peripheral characters are just as fabulous as the central ones, especially Karin Viard, as she tries to commit suicide in every way possible and fails.

The end scene on the roof is a bit stagey, but otherwise you couldn't ask much more of this film which is beautifully charming, witty and slightly morbid all at once.