Review of The Big Picture (2010) by Brock B — 02 Jul 2011
Also known as Lâ(TM)Homme qui voulait vivre sa vie, The Big Picture proved to be another excellent film. âThank you for choosing this f------ film,â? director Eric Lartigau told the capacity crowd at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The f------ film focuses on Paul Exben, played by Roman Duris. Early in the film, his learns that his marriage has collapsed. Paul confronts Grà (C)goire, his wifeâ(TM)s lover, and accidentally kills the man. He realizes that he must disappear so he assumes Grà (C)goireâ(TM)s identity and moves to the Balkans.
The film is a dark character study of a tragic hero. Lartigau often films the protagonist from a side, allowing the audience to experience the thoughts and emotions of the man. He also uses trailing shots from behind to single the man out in crowds. These lengthy shots permit viewers to relate to Paul and understand that although he killed a man, he is not necessarily a bad man.
Certain symbols, like a storm at sea representing Paulâ(TM)s turmoil or sunlight peaking through clouds offering him a chance at redemption may be clichà (C)d but they are not overused. The screenplay offers a unique take on the slow but suspenseful psychological thriller. The Balkan countryside is a fitting location to set a film which defies conventional genres. It is anonymous, broken-down, and charming all at once -- the perfect setting for someone trying to start over.
Paul and Grà (C)goire had always been rivals. Both were amateur photographers but Paul eschewed the craft and became a successful lawyer. Grà (C)goire continued to work as a freelance photographer but suffered very poor results. Ironically, when Paul starts his new life, he chooses to become a photographer and experienced international acclaim. Only Bartholomà (C), the drunken magazine photo editor who Googled Paul/Grà (C)goire is able to see through the deception; everyone else buys into the Hollywood story.
Of course, given Paulâ(TM)s past, his triumph is unsustainableâ¦.
This review of The Big Picture (2010) was written by Brock B on 02 Jul 2011.
The Big Picture has generally received positive reviews.
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