This Week at the Movies: From Global Journeys to Superhero Returns

A Vibrant Week for Cinema
This Wednesday, July 9, cinema enthusiasts are treated to a diverse lineup of new releases. The film critics from Le Monde highlight a range of fresh titles to discover in theatres, with genres spanning drama, documentary, animation, and even the much-anticipated return of a legendary superhero in a light-hearted take that defies the usual seriousness. This week’s selections invite viewers to embark on cinematic journeys across continents and experiences.

“Le Rire et le Couteau”: Challenging Perspectives
One of the standout films this week is “Le Rire et le Couteau” by Portuguese director Pedro Pinho. Set in Guinea-Bissau, a West African nation that gained independence in 1974, the story follows Sergio, a Portuguese engineer whose worldview is gradually upended. Initially portrayed as an open-minded European aware of postcolonial complexities, Sergio is forced to reassess his beliefs and adapt to a reality that challenges his expectations.

Through Sergio’s eyes, the film explores themes of uncertainty and identity. The narrative is fluid and unpredictable, mirroring the protagonist’s internal upheaval. Visually, “Le Rire et le Couteau” captivates with its striking cinematography and the freedom Pinho takes in both storytelling and style. The film’s most powerful moments arise in scenes of vulnerability and fleeting peace, such as a tranquil sequence by the sea, offering glimpses of harmony amid life’s turmoil.

Documenting Modern Life and Youth
Wang Bing’s “Jeunesse (retour au pays)” marks the final chapter in his trilogy on the textile workshops of Zhili, China. This documentary follows young workers as they journey back to their rural villages, often thousands of kilometers away. The film offers a poignant look at migration, ambition, and the pursuit of belonging, although critics note a sense of repetition in this third installment.

Global Stories and Unconventional Narratives
The new releases also include “Amour,” a Norwegian drama by Dag Johan Haugerud, where Tor and Marianne’s frequent ferry rides between Oslo and the Nesodden peninsula evoke a sense of wanderlust and routine. The lineup features a blend of genres and countries, underscoring cinema’s ability to connect viewers with unfamiliar worlds.

Other Noteworthy Films of the Week
Several other titles are turning heads this week. “Des feux dans la plaine,” a Chinese crime drama by Zhang Ji, is described as both chilling and intense. María Trénor’s animated film “Rock Bottom,” inspired by the music of Robert Wyatt, offers a psychedelic visual experience. Meanwhile, Alessandra Lacorazza’s “In the Summers” delivers a moving portrait of a complex father-daughter relationship set in the United States.

On a lighter note, “I Love Peru” is a parody documentary from France, directed by Hugo David and starring Raphaël Quenard. The film playfully blurs the lines between reality and fiction, adding a unique flavor to this week’s premieres.

A Week of Discovery and Reflection
Whether viewers are seeking powerful stories of self-discovery, innovative animation, or simply the nostalgia of a superhero’s return, this week’s cinema releases offer something for everyone. As always, the critics remind us that the big screen remains a place for reflection, imagination, and, above all, adventure.