Feminism and Satire Intertwine in Latest Film

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Crime Is Mine (Mon crime)
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Genre: Comedy, Crime
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director(s): François Ozon
Writer(s): François Ozon, Philippe Piazzo (Freely adapted from the play Mon Crime (1934) by Georges Berr & Louis Verneuil)
Cast: Nadia Tereszkiewicz, Rebecca Marder, Isabelle Huppert, Fabrice Luchini, Dany Boon, André Dussollier
Where To Watch: in select theaters December 25, 2023, available now on Bluray/DVD here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: François Ozon’s THE CRIME IS MINE transports us to the heart of 1930s Paris, combining a gripping detective plot with the allure of vaudeville. Drawing from a classic 1934 play, the film eschews conventional musical elements, enveloping us in a rich tapestry of the era’s sound and feel. This is one of those films I say you must experience to understand genuinely.

In this vivid backdrop, we meet Madeleine Verdier (Nadia Tereszkiewicz), an aspiring actress, and her companion Pauline Mauléon (Rebecca Marder), a lawyer poised on the cusp of success. Their world is upended when Madeleine becomes embroiled in a scandal, rejecting the advances of a high-powered producer. This event propels Madeleine into the limelight, with Pauline skillfully navigating the waters of legal defense and public perception while the shadow of a dark secret looms over their newfound celebrity.

THE CRIME IS MINE marks a fitting and stylish finale to Ozon’s ‘female trilogy.’ The film is laced with sharp satire and imbued with a deep feminist ethos, effortlessly weaving together empowerment and societal critique themes. Paris during this era is more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right, mirroring the social disparities of the time. The transformation of Madeleine and Pauline from the brink of eviction to the pinnacle of society provides a brief commentary on ambition and the societal framework that shapes it.

Ozon revitalizes a near-century-old play, infusing it with modern themes while retaining its original heart. His direction is a fine blend of character-centric storytelling, combining sensitivity with a brisk narrative pace. The film revisits and expands the dialogue of the Me Too movement, encompassing a broader spectrum of women’s experiences.

The performances in THE CRIME IS MINE are true highlights. Tereszkiewicz and Marder deliver standout performances, and Isabelle Huppert, the former silent film star Odette Chaumette, captivates with her layered portrayal. Her character’s involvement in the case reveals the extremes people will go to for fame. Playing the astute Judge Gustave Rabusset, Fabrice Luchini rounds out a main cast that epitomizes sophisticated comedy.

As the narrative unfolds, Madeleine’s troubles and Pauline’s legal strategies seize media attention, only to be unexpectedly derailed by Chaumette’s unforeseen claim. Ozon masterfully utilizes this plot twist to inject humor and societal commentary, with the exaggerated performances striking a harmonious contrast with the film’s whimsical musical score.

THE CRIME IS MINE transcends its narrative about women battling societal norms. It’s a film that critiques the absurd extremes of fame-seeking, resonating with contemporary discussions on gender, power dynamics, and media sensationalism.

The film pays homage to the golden age of cinema and theater, with its quick-witted dialogue and meticulous production making it as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. It challenges the norms we expect, champions the underdog, and showcases Ozon’s directorial approach. Its theatrical script, crisp dialogues, and dynamic cast ensure that THE CRIME IS MINE is a memorable cinematic experience, encapsulating the essence of the new wave of feminism and the societal challenges women faced in the early 20th century. THE CRIME IS MINE is a must-watch for those who savor a blend of history, drama, and mystery. The film entertains and prompts introspection, standing out in Ozon’s work and impressing while leaving space for further exploration in its genre.

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[photo courtesy of MUSIC BOX FILMS, BRIGHT IRIS FILM CO.]