Simone Veil's life story through the pivotal events of 20th Century. Her childhood, her political battles, her tragedies. An intimate and epic portrait of an extraordinary woman who eminently challenged and transformed her era defending a humanist message still keenly relevant today.
Simone: Woman of the Century is a film that embarks on the monumental task of chronicling the extraordinary life of French politician Simone Veil. Directed by Olivier Dahan and brought to life by a dedicated cast and crew, the film captures the essence of a woman who left an indelible mark on history. However, while it shines a light on her achievements, it occasionally falls short of delving into the depth of her character.
Simone Veil, who became one of the few women ever inducted into the Académie Française, is a figure of immense significance. Her life story is marked by resilience, courage, and a relentless pursuit of justice. The film introduces us to Veil's remarkable journey, from her childhood in a secular Jewish family in France to her harrowing experiences in Auschwitz and her subsequent rise as a champion for the dispossessed.
Rebecca Marder takes on the role of the young Simone Veil with aplomb. Her portrayal captures the essence of a strong-minded woman who faced adversity head-on. Some of the film's most powerful moments come when it shifts its focus to Veil's traumatic experiences during the Holocaust. These scenes are stirring and sombre, providing a glimpse into the horrors she endured.
As Veil later in life, Elsa Zylberstein's performance is obscured by layers of facial prosthesis meant to make her resemble the elder Veil in photographs. While this may have been done for authenticity, it hinders her ability to convey emotion effectively. It's a challenge to connect with her character on a deeper level when her facial expressions are constrained.
The film employs a non-chronological narrative structure, framing Veil's life as a series of flashbacks. This approach adds complexity to the storytelling but can be disorienting for viewers unfamiliar with her story. However, each individual sequence carries its own emotional weight and draws on the power of memory and witness accounts.
Simone boasts impeccable production values and meticulously designed sets that transport the audience to different periods in Veil's life. It's a visually impressive film that captures the details of her momentous journey with precision.
The film's male characters, unfortunately, fade into the background, overshadowed by the towering presence of Simone Veil. While her story is undeniably powerful, a bit more exploration of the supporting characters could have added depth to the narrative.
.jpg)
One of the film's strengths lies in its unflinching portrayal of the Holocaust. The concentration camp scenes are hauntingly realistic, and the film doesn't shy away from depicting the horrors of that dark period in history. It's a testament to the film's commitment to honouring Veil's experiences.
Dahan's direction and script are largely focused on capturing the essence of Simone Veil's life and placing her within the historical context of her time. The film utilizes Veil's own statements on issues like racism and injustice to underscore her significance. Additionally, the portrayal of the camps, including the death march as the war drew to a close, is both respectful and chilling.
However, there are moments when the film's score threatens to overwhelm the performances, detracting from the subtleties of the storytelling. It's a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling narrative.
Simone is a film that highlights the importance of Simone Veil's contributions to society, particularly in the realm of women's rights. She is a role model for women and a symbol of bravery in the face of unimaginable adversity. The film's runtime of 2 hours and 19 minutes may seem long, but it offers a captivating and profoundly moving experience.
Simone: Woman of the Century is a reverent tribute to a remarkable life. It captures the essence of a woman who fought for unity, equality, and justice in a variety of ways. While the film may not delve as deeply into Veil's character as one might hope, it serves as an important reminder of her enduring legacy. Her story, with its highs and lows, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of compassion.
Simone: Woman of the Century is in NZ cinemas from October 26th, 2023