MOVIE REVIEW
The Mohican (Le Mohican)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Frédéric Farrucci
Writer(s): Frédéric Farrucci
Cast: Alexis Manenti, Mara Taquin
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Venice International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: In the sun-drenched expanses of Corsica, France, a drama unfolds as tradition clashes with the tide of modernity. THE MOHICAN offers a fresh take on the classic Western motif, placing Joseph (Alexis Manenti,) a tenacious shepherd, at the heart of a land dispute with unyielding mafia interests. Amidst the intense summer heat, a deadly confrontation propels him into a dangerous escape across the island, marking the beginning of his transformation into a symbol of grassroots resistance.

Director Frédéric Farrucci infuses the narrative with a strong personal connection, paralleling the existential threat to local shepherds with the overarching narrative. His keen observation of Corsica as a cultural and economic battlefield lends authenticity to the film, portraying the island as more than just a picturesque location but as a world brimming with its own life. Farrucci’s portrayal of Corsica exposes the harsh reality of its transformation into a playground for the wealthy, leaving its true custodians—the local communities—alienated and marginalized.

As Joseph's odyssey unfolds, it becomes clear that his story is not just one of survival but a resonant exploration of cultural preservation. His refusal to yield to commercial pressures is depicted as stubbornness and a courageous stand for his heritage. His niece, Vannina (Mara Taquin,) amplifies this narrative. She utilizes social media to elevate his struggle to a broader eye, echoing the age-old Western theme of the lone fighter against impossible odds.

The film delves into the socio-economic forces reshaping Corsica, capturing the island’s majestic landscapes, which mirror its people's emotional and cultural turbulence. Farrucci weaves personal conflicts with broader social commentaries, crafting a storyline that challenges viewers to reflect on identity, resistance, and the impacts of globalization on isolated communities.

THE MOHICAN delves into the intricate family dynamics and generational rifts exacerbating the central conflict. Joseph’s responsibility against external threats reflects more profound obligations and the weight of ancestral heritage. The film portrays how these bonds are tested and ultimately strengthened in adversity, offering a more nuanced understanding of what motivates individuals to stand against change. This adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal stakes in the broader cultural and economic battles.

With THE MOHICAN, Farrucci explores complex themes of identity and resistance, much like in his acclaimed previous work, NIGHT RIDE, which garnered significant attention for its profound character studies and atmospheric storytelling. In this latest film, his direction draws out the intertwined fates of land and people, presenting a thought-provoking narrative that questions the inevitability of cultural assimilation.

THE MOHICAN transcends the conventional drama, evolving into a profound statement on the resilience of the human spirit. It invites audiences to contemplate the significance of maintaining cultural integrity in a world increasingly dominated by global influences. The film is not just a visual treat but a meaningful journey into the heart of what it means to fight for one’s place and past.

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[photo courtesy of BE FOR FILMS, AD VITAM, KORO FILMS]

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