‘One plus one, does it make one?‘
Before Denis Villeneuve became Hollywood royalty with films such as Prisoners, Blade Runner 2049 and most recently Dune, he first came to international attention when Incendies was nominated for Best Foreign Picture at the Oscars. As his reputation has risen, so has the perception of Incendies, so much so that it is currently entrenched in the IMDB’s hallowed top 250 films of all time (#111 at the time of writing). And it’s easy to see why…
Following the death of Nawal Marwan (Lubna Azabal), the family matriarch, her son Simon (Maxim Gaudette) and her daughter Jeanne (Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin) are tasked with travelling to the Middle East to find out the truth about their mother’s past. What they find there will change them forever.
Incendies is an epic, multigenerational journey through religious persecution, past trauma and familial relationships. Whilst it has many truly horrific moments, powerful moments, its hopeful message of triumph through adversity is inspirational and aspirational. The trials and tribulations that Nawal endured to ensure the survival of her children are staggering, and it is this perseverance that means that Incendies is never too hard going, despite the difficult subject matter. This is partly due to a trio of excellent performances, particularly from the mother-daughter duo of Azabal and Désormeaux-Poulin, and partly due to Villeneuve’s undeniable flair and natural ability behind the camera. Based on his assured and imaginative direction here, it is no surprise that he has since gone on to conquer Hollywood. It also helps the ending is so sublime and powerful that it is the kind of conclusion that will stay with any viewer for a long time.
For large stretches, Incendies is a quiet contemplative film. But when it has to be loud, it explodes into life with an intensity and poignancy that justifies its stellar reputation. For fans of Villeneuve and his work, this should be essential viewing, for anyone with a tolerance for subtitles and a love of cinema, this should also occupy a prominent place on any list. Crucial cinema.