Holy Motors
Dir: Leos Carax
2012
*****

Leos Carax's first film in 13 years was well worth the wait. I don't think film has been this poetic since Jean Cocteau, interesting then that he made his last film the same year as Carax was born, I certainly see him as France's ambassador of surreal romanticism anyway. Holy Motors is open to interpretation and it really does deserve repeat viewing, not that that would take much effort as it is glorious to look at. It's a surreal mix of performance art, avatorism and existentialism wrapped up in a beautifully visual love letter to Paris. I wondered if at first it was a statement on religion and the bastardisation/reinvention of God but I think it is the opposite, it is an exploration of the superficial and society’s inability (or reluctance) to recognise what is genuine (hence the Juxtaposed title, a 'Motor' can never be 'Holy'). He is suggesting that most people live in a fantasy world, he is showing that fantasy for what it is with stunning symbolism. As ever, Paris is the beautiful leading lady. It'd a stunning work of art and genius, made with passion, love and sacrifice. Denis Lavant is amazing in the lead role, indeed Carax said of him that; "If Denis had said no, I would have offered the part to Lond Chaney or to Chaplin. Or to Peter Lorre or Michel Simon, all of whom are dead."