Burnt Out (2005)
9/10
Gourmet for non-Gourmets
4 October 2009
Again and again, Olivier Gourmet delivers. Maybe -again, this film is not for the more inclined to American films. This one takes you into a roller-coaster of emotions that are pathetically real. Through the dissolving agents of a family breakdown. Through the bitterness of a soul that never lets his feelings show. Through the real life randomness of actions that end abruptly in pain. Through characters so well depicted that you may think you're living the process with them.

Some people argue that suspension of disbelief is a sine qua non condition to get inside a theatre or cinema and sit to watch the tragedy develop. And it is true. But when what is happening right in front of your eyes, touches some inner fibres, it accomplished its mission: to take you in the realms of dreams. This film may make your reactions more visceral, because you know someone who's been through some of the pathos of the script.

Is this a slow film? It depends on this: if what makes you react is something like Transformers or Jurassic Park, this is not a film for you. But if you are someone who likes to think and develop arguments with others, and watch Bresson, Bergman, the Coen brothers or films that deal with reality and fiction so well that end up depicting aspects of real life, then, this film is for you and it won't "feel" slow.

Again, Olivier Gourmet leading the cast with an ensemble of truly accomplished actors and actresses, was the right and only choice for this film by one of the few women who have been directing for almost fifteen years in France.
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