MOVIE REVIEW
Block Pass (La Pampa)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Antoine Chevrollier
Writer(s): Bérénice Bocquillon, Antoine Chevrollier, Faïza Guène
Cast: Artus, Damien Bonnard, Sayyid El Alami, Amaury Foucher, Mathieu Demy, Florence Janas, Léonie Dahan-Lamort
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: showing at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Revving through the sweeping landscapes of the French countryside, director Antoine Chevrollier's debut film BLOCK PASS zooms in with the electrifying energy of motocross races. Chevrollier, making a notable leap from television to film, crafts a narrative that vibrates with vigor, the complexities of perceived masculinity, and a persistent defiance against what some consider norms—all set against the dynamic thrum of motocross at La Pampa.

BLOCK PASS thrusts us into the world of Willy (Sayyid El Alami) and Jojo (Amaury Foucher,) whose lifelong friendship is tested by secrets that could unravel their tight-knit community. The film captures the essence of their evolving bond, enriching the high-octane backdrop with emotional and thematic depth.

Originating from Longué-Jumelles, Chevrollier attributes his cinematic passion to his early film encounters, which lit the spark for his storytelling ambitions. Transitioning from television, where he spearheaded series like The Bureau and Baron Noir, his directorial skills came together in BLOCK PASS, guided by a profound understanding of narrative flow and character development.

Chevrollier's approach to filmmaking is refreshingly instinctual, shunning formal training to embrace a more natural storytelling path. This authentic touch resonates throughout BLOCK PASS as the narrative unfurls, allowing the characters’ lives to intersect and diverge in the most organic ways possible.

The screenplay, a joint effort by Bérénice Bocquillon, Faïza Guène, and Chevrollier, was honed over three years to capture the genuine dynamics of its characters and not just a cursory glance and what we see from the outside. This painstakingly detailed development anchor the film’s lofty ambitions in a believable reality, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs resonate with viewers.

Crafting the story from Willy’s point of view, Chevrollier expands the scope to address broader societal themes like exclusion and identity, moving beyond simple interpersonal dramas. This narrative pivot deepens the film’s emotional resonance and enriches its storyline. The style of the film is almost documentary-like, taking these stories and letting them unfold in front of us as we watch from the outside.

The casting process was meticulous, with Sayyid El Alami perfectly embodying Willy’s intricate persona and Amaury Foucher bringing Jojo to life with a unique perspective and style. Their performances, supported by Artus and Damien Bonnard, add depth to the film, enhancing its narrative through their nuanced portrayals.

BLOCK PASS focuses on the small, defining moments of its characters’ lives. This strategy emphasizes the film’s commitment to authenticity and emotional truth, inviting the audience to connect with the characters' journeys. Avoiding the massive character arcs as expected creates a film that lets you focus on this journey without getting lost in the larger picture.

BLOCK PASS is much more than a film about motocross. It explores human connections, personal growth, and the lasting impact of our choices. With its detailed storytelling, refined character studies, and genuine engagement, BLOCK PASS highlights Chevrollier’s distinctive vision and narrative style.

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[photo courtesy of AGAT FILMS & CIE, PULSAR CONTENT, TANDEM]

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