31 January 2022

Loin des Hommes

 Loin des hommes 2014

  • Director: David Oelhoffen
  • Based on a short story by Albert Camus
  • Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Reda Kateb
  • Personal “oh yeah him/her” reaction, i.e. have seen this actor in:
    • Viggo Mortensen – Green Book, The Road, A History of Violence, Hidalgo, Lord of the Rings etc, Carlito’s Way, The Indian Runner, Witness
  • Why?  It sounded interesting
  • Seen:  30 January 2022 

Algeria 1954. A widowed teacher Daru (Mortensen) in an isolated mountain school is coerced into escorting an accused murder Mohamed (Kateb) to the city for his trial and execution.

This is as grim and harsh as one can expect from something based on a story by Camus. It is well-acted, the almost monochromatic visuals are stark and effective and the drama and tragedy is gripping.

Until is loses its way completely and resorts to unnecessary clichés. A real pity. It was heading towards a strong 4*. Instead: 

2 ½* of 5 *

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