And Then I Was French

And Then I Was French is a captivating and thought-provoking psychological thriller from 2016 that seamlessly blends elements of romance, suspense, and horror to tell a dynamic narrative. It stars Joanna Vanderham, Lewis Rainer, and Tom Forbes, all of whom deliver electrifying performances that keep viewers on the edge of their seat throughout the film's duration.

From British filmmaker Claire Leona Apps, And Then I Was French effectively strays from the typical romantic narrative, presenting viewers with an ambiguous look at the complexities of love and identity. Using an intricate subtext that comments on societal pressures and the lengths one can go to fit into socially constructed norms, the movie is a rich exploration of the human desire to belong and the consequences of extreme adaptation.

Joanna Vanderham, the Scottish actress of the Paradise fame, plays the role of Alice, a shy, naive, but hardworking girl. Alice's seemingly ordinary life is disrupted when she falls for Jay, played by Lewis Rainer (Da Vinci’s Demons, Death and Nightingales). Jay is confident, successful, and the complete opposite of Alice in demeanor and lifestyle. As their relationship evolves, Alice begins to question her perceptions of love, life, and reality.

Tom Forbes (The Witcher, Skyfall) graces the screen as Carne, a mysterious character whose entrance to the story brings a significant twist. He plays a pivotal role in Alice's transformation and forces both her and the audience to question the nature of identity, changing perceptions, and self-discovery.

The film opens in the rustic landscapes of Cornwall. But as the romance blossoms, Alice and Jay move to the bustling city of London, where Alice struggles to fit into Jay's chic urban lifestyle. Torn between her desires and her origins, she begins a jarring struggle, the duality of which is vividly highlighted in Apps’ imagery. The contrast between rural Cornwall and modern London symbolizes Alice's battle between her original self and the woman she thinks Jay wants her to be.

One of the standout aspects of And Then I Was French is the performances of the main cast. Joanna Vanderham's portrayal of Alice’s transformation is both striking and heartbreaking. The actress manages to evoke sympathy and fear, showcasing a broad range of acting skills. Lewis Rainer matches Vanderham's talent with a layered and nuanced performance as Jay, artfully blurring the lines between charm and control.

Equally compelling is Tom Forbes as Carne. His portrayal of the enigmatic character compels the audience to ponder over the fine line between love and obsession. His piercing performances combine with Vanderham and Rainer to create a disconcerting, chilling atmosphere that permeates the film.

And Then I Was French is a film that is not afraid to delve deep into the psyche of its characters. Coupling this with solid performances and an intense soundtrack, it provides an immersive experience. Each scene is meticulously crafted to create a sense of claustrophobia, with tight close-ups and a muted colour palette that further intensify the mood.

In sum, And Then I Was French is a chilling psychological thriller that takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through the human mind. It compellingly explores themes of identity, obsession, and the terrifying lengths one might go to achieve 'perfection'. With stellar performances from a talented cast, superbly moody cinematography and a unique storyline, it is a film that is sure to stay with viewers long after the credits roll.