328. Athena; movie review

 

ATHENA

Cert 15

99 mins

BBFC advice: Contains strong language, violence, threat

As the year comes to an end, I need to catch up on the movies which are being touted to have Oscar possibilities.

While I have previously committed to watching only films released at the cinema, I think that I should also include the very best from the streaming services.

These include the much-acclaimed Athena, a high-intensity French picture which is available on Netflix.

This Romain Gavras film explores insurrection at a deprived estate from the inside.

Hell descends on the neighbourhood after it is reported that a 13-year-old son of Algerian parents has been brutally killed by police.

One of his brothers (Sami Slimane) leads a small army of young men in a violent uprising.

Meanwhile, another brother (Dali Benssalah) is conflicted because he is a decorated soldier and he appeals to his sibling to restore calm.

The escalation of anger towards authority is the cornerstone of a movie which doesn't let up for a second.

Athena's storyline is one-dimensional and often told - the son of an immigrant family is killed by authority causing a widespread, violent reaction.

But I have to say that it works within the claustrophobic confines of burning social housing after the emotional powderkeg has erupted.

Meanwhile, it is clear that while some of the riot police are relishing the battle, many are young men who would rather be anywhere else.

The film concentrates on just one of them, played with empathy by Anthony Bajon.

Athena is a film for its time, highlighting the disconnect between authorities and the poorer strands of society.

It shows that if you treat people like animals they behave accordingly and leaves its audience on edge throughout.

Reasons to watch: Ultra-intense

Reasons to avoid: Non-stop violence

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 8.5/10

Did you know? On 31 October 2022, migrants in the Austrian town Linz clashed with the police and Athena was mentioned as a reference on TikTok, days before the incident.

The final word. Romain Gavras: "We called it Athena just because we wanted to pull the thread of Greek tragedy, and of course, Athena is the goddess of war and wisdom." Hollywood Reporter

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