Léolo (1992) - Dir- Jean-Claude Lauzon Reviewed by Ollie - 27th December 2003.
CONTAINS SPOILERS
This is probably one of the most difficult reviews I have written, simply because I have absolutely no idea where to begin. Léolo is one of the most unique, and unusual films I have ever seen. Unlike most films it doesn't sit comfortably in any particular genre. It dances a fine line between black comedy, and an offbeat coming of age `drama'.
Leon Lauzon, or `Léolo' is convinced that he is the unlikely offspring of a sperm laden Sicilian tomato, and that his true heritage is that of Italian blood. For the most part, his family are insane. His Father is obsessed with bowel motion, on the theory that, and I quote, `A s*** a day, keeps the Doctor away'. His brother, after a fight with a bully becomes obsessed with body building, one sister is obese, borderline catatonic and appears to happily communicate with insects, the other is in a mental institution, where most of the family seem to reside with startling regularity.
This film will not appeal to everyone. There are some particularly unpleasant scenes, including an attempted murder, the `rape' of a cat, by a group of beer swilling, glue sniffing, leather clad youths, and Léolo himself having a sexual experience with what appears to be a piece of liver.
Throughout the film, these images are neatly juxtaposed with a poetic, and in places, almost lyrical dialogue.
There is a lot to take on board in one viewing. This is a film that most definitely demands attention, and concentration. Light hearted entertainment it most certainly isn't, but it is ultimately rewarding, albeit as a sad reflection of a young boy's progression into sexual awareness, and eventual descent into the madness that, through his writing, he is continually trying to escape.
This film walks a fine line between a sick and depraved collection of perverse imagery, and a poetic, gentle and yet devastating account of life. Somehow, through a combination of superb acting, unique direction and a fabulous soundtrack, the film manages to always stay on its metaphorical tightrope.
Definitely well worth seeing, although to fully appreciate the film, I suspect two or three viewings will be necessary. If I had to award points to the film it would get a well deserved 8.5/10.
Ollie
CONTAINS SPOILERS
This is probably one of the most difficult reviews I have written, simply because I have absolutely no idea where to begin. Léolo is one of the most unique, and unusual films I have ever seen. Unlike most films it doesn't sit comfortably in any particular genre. It dances a fine line between black comedy, and an offbeat coming of age `drama'.
Leon Lauzon, or `Léolo' is convinced that he is the unlikely offspring of a sperm laden Sicilian tomato, and that his true heritage is that of Italian blood. For the most part, his family are insane. His Father is obsessed with bowel motion, on the theory that, and I quote, `A s*** a day, keeps the Doctor away'. His brother, after a fight with a bully becomes obsessed with body building, one sister is obese, borderline catatonic and appears to happily communicate with insects, the other is in a mental institution, where most of the family seem to reside with startling regularity.
This film will not appeal to everyone. There are some particularly unpleasant scenes, including an attempted murder, the `rape' of a cat, by a group of beer swilling, glue sniffing, leather clad youths, and Léolo himself having a sexual experience with what appears to be a piece of liver.
Throughout the film, these images are neatly juxtaposed with a poetic, and in places, almost lyrical dialogue.
There is a lot to take on board in one viewing. This is a film that most definitely demands attention, and concentration. Light hearted entertainment it most certainly isn't, but it is ultimately rewarding, albeit as a sad reflection of a young boy's progression into sexual awareness, and eventual descent into the madness that, through his writing, he is continually trying to escape.
This film walks a fine line between a sick and depraved collection of perverse imagery, and a poetic, gentle and yet devastating account of life. Somehow, through a combination of superb acting, unique direction and a fabulous soundtrack, the film manages to always stay on its metaphorical tightrope.
Definitely well worth seeing, although to fully appreciate the film, I suspect two or three viewings will be necessary. If I had to award points to the film it would get a well deserved 8.5/10.
Ollie