224. Theo And The Metamorphosis; movie review

 

THEO AND THE METAMORPHOSIS

Cert 18

96 mins

BBFC advice: Contains strong real sex, gory images

For the past decade I have been trying to grapple with arty movies, looking for common ground that my feeble, logical mind can share with those who see life through a different lens.

But the trouble is, just when I think I have cracked it, they go a stage too far.

I thought had garnered a slice of empathy for Theo And The Metamorphosis until the last few minutes when, à propos to nothing in particular, a previously unseen topless woman is seen pleasuring herself while the central character puts on a wolf's head and begins howling and deer wanders through a night-time forest.

This left me unsurprisingly bewildered.

Damien Odoul's film centres on Theo, (Théo Kermel), a 27-year-old with Down's syndrome who lives with his father (Pierre Meunier) in an isolated house in the middle of a forest.

They live in harmony with nature but have a rather strange love-hate relationship.

Then one day the father goes away, leaving his son alone with his visions which stretch from murder to sex.

Meanwhile, he carries out his daily tasks around the forest and at home in his birthday suit.

There is no doubt that Kermel gives an amazing performance. He attacks a very complex role with great gusto.

But I was unable to work out what Odoul was trying to say with this film.

The movie does narration in the guise of Theo's inner voice but, if anything, it only adds to the confusion rather than give any sort of explanation.

Odoul says art is about pushing boundaries but I needed to understand the point.

Reasons to watch: Delves beyond usual barriers

Reasons to avoid: Will be too poetic for many

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: Yes

Overall rating: 6/10

Did you know? Those with Down’s syndrome are born with an extra chromosome by chance because of a change in the sperm or egg before they are born. 

The final word. Damien Odoul: 'I think it is necessary as an artist to take the complete risk if you are doing a piece of art. I want to challenge the viewing habits of the public and to take a risk for it." Cineuropa

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