MOVIE REVIEW
Shepherds (Bergers)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 53m
Director(s): Sophie Deraspe
Writer(s): Mathyas Lefebure
Cast: Félix-Antoine Duval, Solène Rigot
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)

RAVING REVIEW: SHEPHERDS takes us away to the dramatic expanse of the French Alps, where director Sophie Deraspe crafts a rugged and reflective narrative. In this cinematic journey, Félix-Antoine Duval portrays Mathyas, a Montreal executive whose disillusionment with city life drives him to seek serenity in the pastoral landscapes. However, what begins as a quest for simplicity evolves into a challenging saga of survival and self-awareness. As Mathyas faces the elemental forces of nature, the film becomes a testament to the human spirit's resilience.

Deraspe, celebrated for her poignant narratives, returns to the director's chair with a story that contrasts with the perceived tranquility of rural life. The film delves into life as Mathyas discovers that relentless challenges overshadow the serene shepherd lifestyle he envisioned. The addition of Élise, played by Solène Rigot, marks a turning point in the storyline. Her transition from the confines of a corporate career as a civil servant to the unpredictable alpine existence alongside Mathyas adds weight to the plot, emphasizing personal growth and struggles of adaptability to the story.

Stéphane Lafleur’s cinematography transforms the Alpine backdrop into a picturesque setting for the story. His lens captures the breathtaking vistas and the intimate, transformative moments between Mathyas and Élise. This more profound vision enriches the narrative, pulling the audience deeper into the characters' emotional and physical journeys.

An intriguing aspect of SHEPHERDS is its subtle exploration of environmental themes alongside the story's central core. The narrative follows the personal trials of Mathyas and Élise and touches on the broader impact of human activities on the Alpine ecosystem. This adds a contemporary relevance to the story, resonating with global concerns over sustainability and the stewardship of natural landscapes.

Duval's portrayal of Mathyas is a nuanced exploration of transformation. The actor navigates his character’s internal and external challenges with a finesse highlighting the profound changes one undergoes when completely altering one's way of life. Rigot’s performance as Élise offers a compelling parallel, her character's journey mirroring the external ruggedness they both must endure. Together, they encapsulate a duo navigating the trials of a life far removed from anything they previously knew.

SHEPHERDS transcends mere cinematic escapism, evolving into a deep dive into what it means to truly live away from the hustle and bustle of a world of chaos. The film challenges viewers to contemplate genuine existence versus mere survival, presenting a narrative ripe with philosophical inquiries. Deraspe spotlights the untamed allure of the pastoral lifestyle and doesn’t shy away from its inherent adversities, crafting a film that’s both contemplative and visually stunning.

In conclusion, SHEPHERDS portrays endurance and personal evolution against the majestic French Alps. The film balances the harsh realities of alpine life with the breathtaking beauty of the landscape, creating a story that resonates with anyone who's ever contemplated stepping away from the familiar in search of something extraordinary. Deraspe's film is not just a story of survival but a celebration of the human capacity to adapt and thrive against the odds, ensuring that the audience will be left pondering their own life choices long after the credits roll.

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[photo courtesy of MICRO_SCOPE, AVENUE B PRODUCTIONS, PYRAMIDE INTERNATIONAL]

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