Every time you think it can't get any more dark, it still finds a way. 'La Chambre des morts' is unquestionably disturbing, but excellent. I'm not familiar with the book writer-director Alfred Lot adapted this from, but he has crafted a swell crime thriller.
Disparate early scenes are slowly stitched into the larger story, echoing the way that the various leads are pieced together in the police investigation to advance toward the conclusion. The construction of the narrative isn't entirely solid, as characters, their histories, and the relationships between them aren't necessarily fully fleshed out. The discovery of clues, and the progression of the case at hand, is so impressive for the brilliance on display that it somewhat defies belief. Our engagement with the film is slightly tainted for how neatly the plot progresses from beginning to end, even while some dots go unconnected with the characters.
Despite these minor frailties, the narrative as a whole is written well, and it's duly captivating throughout. Most of the characters are rather dubious, and to that end 'La Chambre des morts' feels somewhat like an especially gritty noir thriller - save for that the police that serve as the protagonist and chief supporting characters are so virtuous, if imperfect, that the film becomes a bit fantastical for how unrealistically competent and honorable they are.
The whole cast is very capable, and those portraying the more antagonistic characters are especially notable. But the lead role of profiler Lucie Hennebelle very deservedly belongs to Mélanie Laurent, a star who has certainly earned her reputation. Lucie is more well-rounded than other individuals in the writing, and Laurent ably embodies her insatiable curiosity and drive. It's as true here as in other pictures I've seen of hers that Laurent possesses a certain presence, and fluidity in her delivery, that makes her stand out even when she's not given top billing. Given the darker atmosphere of 'La Chambre des morts,' her involvement is all the more welcome.
It's hard not to draw at least some comparison to other thrillers that center a highly intelligent criminal profiler, and the aura this film gives off undoubtedly recalls the likes of 'Silence of the lambs.' That ambience is certainly bolstered by the great original score of Nathaniel Méchaly, which builds to an impressive crescendo at the climax from far more subtle background compositions early on. And it's especially to the credit of those behind set and production design, as there are plenty of scenes here - especially nearing the climax - where the details in their work, and the surroundings generally, do much to fix the mood.
'La Chambre des morts' is hardly perfect, but it's fun in its grimness and the thrills on hand, and it's always worth watching Mélanie Laurent practice her craft. Even with its slight flaws, the narrative is pretty capably written, and engaging. The disturbing subject material may be a turn-off for some, but otherwise this is a film well worth checking out if you get the chance.
