French body horror film debuts

A new French body horror film, the first feature by Marion Le Correller, has drawn comparisons to The Substance by Coralie Fargeat, released two years earlier. The film shares visual and stylistic elements with The Substance, including bright colors, sterile interiors shot with wide-angle lenses, and a techno soundtrack that influences the editing.

Opening scene sets tone

The film opens with a tense scene in a fast-food restaurant where an overworked server snaps and kills an impolite customer. This sequence, while familiar and somewhat exaggerated, raises concerns about the film repeating clichés from the genre. However, critics note that the film avoids being overly deferential and lacks lightness, though it occasionally breaks free through thoughtful visual choices and the character of Margot, a young intern thrust into the emergency room.

Setting and narrative focus

Most of the film’s key scenes take place in a hospital, with only a brief sequence in a nightclub. The hospital becomes a central setting, filled with anxiety-inducing corridors, offices, care rooms, and cramped student housing. The narrative revolves around a mysterious skin disease that emerges as the dehumanizing workload intensifies, though the film avoids turning this into a social satire, which critics consider a positive choice.

Acting and visual impact

The film highlights the performance of Mara Taquin, whose face is described as a crucial element for the film, much like Garance Marillier’s in Grave by Julia Ducournau. Taquin’s face, captured from all angles, offers striking visual variety to the director’s camera. Her ability to portray pain, focus, and emotional overwhelm adds depth to the film, making it more engaging despite its darker themes.