MOVIE REVIEW
All Your Faces (Je verrai toujours vos visages)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2022, 2024 Icarus Films DVD
Runtime: 1h 58m
Director(s): Jeanne Herry
Writer(s): Jeanne Herry
Cast: Birane Ba, Leïla Bekhti, Anne Benoît, Dali Benssalah, Élodie Bouchez, Suliane Brahim, Jean-Pierre Darroussin, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Gilles Lellouche, Miou-Miou
Where To Watch: available July 23, 2024; pre-order here: www.icarusfilms.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Stepping into the world of ALL YOUR FACES, one is immediately swept up by director Jeanne Herry's masterful depiction of restorative justice—a theme rich in narrative depth and emotional resonance. This film serves up a compelling blend of storytelling that cleverly stitches together the lives of its characters, engaging the audience with its poignant reflections on trauma and the redemptive power of dialogue.

From the opening scenes, Herry sets the stage for a dual-thread narrative that navigates through the rough waters of pain and healing. The film revolves around the interactions mediated by Judith (Élodie Bouchez,) Fanny (Suliane Brahim,) Michel (Jean-Pierre Darroussin,) and others. They guide a series of gritty conversations inside a penitentiary, setting victims of crime face-to-face with their offenders. These intense sessions pull back the curtain on the lingering scars of violence, with standout moments that reveal the complex emotional landscapes navigated by characters such as Nawelle (Leïla Bekhti,) a robbery victim, and Grégoire (Gilles Lellouche,) who's haunted by a violent home invasion.

Moreover, the film’s thoughtful exploration of the intricacies of human emotion underscores its commitment to presenting a realistic portrayal of the struggles and triumphs associated with restorative justice. Each frame is infused with a palpable tension that captivates and educates, urging viewers to ponder the complexities of empathy and forgiveness.

Parallel to the ensemble's journey is the deeply personal story of Chloé, played by Adèle Exarchopoulos, who is preparing to confront her past trauma at the hands of her abusive half-brother. Exarchopoulos's portrayal is nothing short of riveting, encapsulating the formidable challenge of facing one's abuser. Her narrative dives deep into the individual impact of abuse and aligns seamlessly with the film's broader themes, enhancing its overall gravitas.

Herry employs a meticulous cinematic technique to enhance the storytelling. Close-up shots are particularly effective, capturing the subtlest emotional shifts and drawing the audience deeper into the character's psychological and emotional states. The cinematography is strategically designed to amplify the intimacy of each dialogue, making viewers feel as though they are more than just spectators—they are silent witnesses to the unfolding drama.

Despite the gravity of its themes, ALL YOUR FACES offers moments of profound catharsis and a glimpse at potential healing. It boldly suggests that empathy and understanding can pave the path to recovery, even in the deepest wounds. The ensemble cast delivers an outstanding performance, bringing to life a script that masterfully weaves personal trauma with societal commentary.

ALL YOUR FACES is an introspective journey into the heart of human fragility and strength. It is a powerful exploration of the mechanics of restorative justice, challenging viewers to rethink notions of crime, punishment, and redemption. This film is essential viewing for those drawn to cinema that entertains, enlightens, and inspires a dialogue about crucial societal issues.

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[photo courtesy of ICARUS FILMS, DISTRIB FILMS]

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