In “Convivum,” a sleek and sexy short film from France directed by Michaël Nakache, secrets, lies and style crashes head-on in a small French apartment where dinner guests have invited to an evening of what might be the grandest warning ever against speed dating.
Eve (Mélanie Thierry), a petite foot model with large, liquid eyes that blink with such harmless innocence, is a disruptive dinner guest who seems intent on having the earth spin off its axis. While she is the date of Tanguy (Gregory Fitoussi), a reality television producer who is set to make a new show called “Orpan Idol”, Eve manages to wander through the host home of Nadége (Caroline Ducey) and Hugo (Edouard Montoute), uncovering secrets of hidden love, frustration and infidelity. It is not until she leaves with her date that some semblance of normalcy is resolved, until her host and other guest discover the true identity of Eve.
Thierry is seductive and commanding as Eve, especially in scenes she shares with Ducey, who is exceptional in giving her character such quiet, unmistakable sadness that permeates her speech and movements. Fitoussi is excellent as Eve’s date, especially as her unknowingly perfect foil. Samy (Frédéric Epaud), an unlikely paramour, also brings a sense of clumsy lightheartedness necessary to “Convivum”.
What I like best about this film is Nakache’s ability to write and direct a complete and utterly artful film that only lasts all of 27 minutes. As with most short French films, there is a unique verve and style that is uniquely cultural and delightful to watch.
I initially watched “Convivum” without subtitles. Without understanding the language, I had a general sense of what was happening, especially after feeling a general malaise about Eve. The only other more noticeable aspect of the film was how the Gregory Fitoussi managed to drink heartily from his wine glass and eat everything on his dinner plate, along with most of the nuts from a nearby snack tray.
Cultural points: Beautiful presentation of food, lots of wine, conversation and comfort. Real feel of a restaurant or dinner party among friends in France.
Youtube link to film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2rIychhPmg
IMDB link for complete credits, cast list: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0485104/
“Convivum” (France)
Directed by Michaël Nakache
Produced by Michaël Nakache and Sabrina Rigaux
(c)2014 Slow Suburban Death. All rights reserved
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