Raw Emotions Captured “Off-Camera”

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MOVIE REVIEW
Making Of
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 59m
Director(s): Cédric Kahn
Writer(s): Fanny Burdino, Samuel Doux, Cédric Kahn
Cast: Denis Podalydès, Jonathan Cohen, Stefan Crepon, Souheila Yacoub, Emmanuelle Bercot, Xavier Beauvois, Valérie Donzelli
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premiering September 4 at the 2023 Venice Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: MAKING OF takes you on an unprecedented whirlwind journey, unveiling film production's often tumultuous yet exhilarating world. Imagine being handed a magnifying glass to peek into the intricacies of what goes into crafting the magic we see on screen. Sounds fun? That's precisely the rollercoaster ride this film offers.

Denis Podalydes brilliantly steps into the shoes of Simon, our cinematic “director” navigating through stormy seas. But alas, Viviane makes the waters choppier, an artistic explosion portrayed by Emmanuelle Bercot. She's not just there to give in; she's reshaping the narrative ocean, making waves and throwing everyone off course.

However, amidst this tumult, there's Stefan Crepon's Joseph. Think of him as that friend who captures every candid moment on his phone, much to your chagrin. But here's the twist: Joseph's clips are the show-stealer, offering us a perspective that's unfiltered, raw, and sometimes more engaging than the movie's plot itself, which is the purpose.

Peeling back the layers, MAKING OF is like unlocking a treasure chest of emotions, challenges, and undying passion. Whether confronting the dread of dwindling budgets or negotiating with the obstinate disagreements of a diverse team, the movie paints a picture that, although fictional, resonates with the real-world struggles of moviemakers.

The seasoned Cédric Kahn is taking the helm as director, pouring his heart, soul, and vast cinematic knowledge into this endeavor. He seems to share a personal diary with MAKING OF, chronicling his evolution from a profound storyteller to a contemplative director. The beauty of MAKING OF lies in its vast narrative canvas. It doesn't just spotlight the ones shouting "Cut!" but gives a voice to the unsung heroes — from the spirited laborers to starry-eyed actors. These myriad tales, although distinct, beautifully converge, crafting a compelling narrative mosaic highlighting the human essence.

Sometimes, MAKING OF feels like that enthusiastic friend who over-explains a joke. The message, although poignant, could be a subtler. Sharing this message is essential, but I would have liked to have seen some digging involved to get the whole experience. But, in the grand scheme, this minor shortcoming adds to the movie's earnestness.

Wrapping it up, MAKING OF is your backstage pass to the mesmerizing world of cinema. A salute to the sweat, tears, and unyielding passion of everyone from the screenwriters to the spotlight operators. This is a cinematic treat for those captivated by cinema's charm or just itching for a behind-the-scenes scoop. Buckle up for surprises galore! And remember, in the world of MAKING OF, things aren't always as they seem on the reel!

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[photo courtesy of CURIOSA FILMS, THE PR FACTORY]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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