"Beneath the Surface": Despair and Renewal
Twenty-five years ago, François Ozon's film "Under the Sand" made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking a significant turning point in both Ozon's career and that of its lead actress, Charlotte Rampling. The film, which has been hailed as one of the most beautiful meetings between an actress and a filmmaker, has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences today.
"Under the Sand" tells the story of Marie, a woman whose peaceful happiness is disrupted when she believes her husband has disappeared on a beach in Provence. In her hushed intimacy, she keeps her husband alive in the Parisian apartment, summoning his "presence" in a simulation of normality.
The film was inspired by a childhood memory of Ozon and can be seen as a creator's answer to an enigma that had obsessed him for years. It was shot on the same beach where the inspiration occurred, adding a layer of authenticity to the story.
"Under the Sand" received extremely positive reviews from both critics and audiences. Frédéric Bonnaud, in his review, praised its beauty, illness, state of longing, and constant reverie. Charlotte Rampling's role in the film launched a career renaissance for her, and the film marked a milestone in Ozon's career, being the first feature film by him to receive such positive reviews.
The film was nominated for three Césars: Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actress. It also constitutes an interesting case as it is a creator's response to a personal enigma.
"Under the Sand" is available on several platforms in VOD, allowing a new generation of viewers to discover this cinematic masterpiece. The film's concept, filled with traumatic hallucinations and the ghost of a too-light body, plays with its resolution, offering a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
The "A Posteriori Cinema" series aims to celebrate significant anniversaries of landmark films, and "Under the Sand" is no exception. As we mark its 25th anniversary, we are reminded of the power of cinema to touch our hearts and challenge our perceptions.
Ingmar Bergman, the renowned Swedish filmmaker, was a fervent admirer of "Under the Sand," further cementing its place in the annals of cinema history. The film's enduring appeal is a testament to Ozon's vision and Rampling's powerful performance.
As we reflect on "Under the Sand," we are reminded of its profound impact on both film and its audience. It continues to be a film that challenges us, moves us, and leaves us pondering long after the credits roll.
