A collection of images and ideals so vibrantly charged, the experience of viewing sends one into a state of euphoria. An artistic exploration of society, disability, nature and nurture, Jacques Audiard's symphonic Rust And Bone renders a level of life-affirming wonder that few films can truly muster. So sumptuous is his frame, so thoughtful is his story, that it is almost impossible not to be washed up in those lapping waves. Marion Cotillard is absolutely mesmeric as Stephanie, an Orca whale trainer who suffers a horrendous injury during a performance leaving her severely disfigured. Her chance encounter with struggling father and rugged street-fighter Ali (Matthias Schoenaerts) spawns a bond of spiritual bliss that resonates evocatively throughout. Aided by radiant cinematography, inch-perfect frame composition and a soundtrack so beautifully jarring it renders scenes in a light you couldn't dare dream of, this is arresting, spellbinding cinema from an auteur with still so much more to offer.
Film and UFC obsessive with a passion for scribbling words about them. Avid NFL fan and big Chelsea supporter too.
Film Studies degree graduate from the University of Brighton.
