Attila Marcel

Attila Marcel, a film written and directed by Sylvain Chomet, was released back in 2013. Starring Guillaume Gouix, Anne Le Ny and the late Bernadette Lafont, the film is a charming concoction of rich and visually stunning scenes that speak volumes about Chomet’s creative imagination and his ability to tell compelling stories through a distinctive style.

The film's narrative centers around Paul (played by Guillaume Gouix), a thirty-three year old man who lives in Paris and, quite notably, is mute. Left largely silent since his parents' tragic death when he was just a toddler, Paul’s character does not utter a single word throughout the movie. Instead, he expresses himself and communicates with the world around him through his music, particularly his piano playing abilities that he has honed to perfection. Gouix’s portrayal of the deeply reserved and introverted Paul is nothing short of enthralling; he flawlessly conveys a breadth of emotion without uttering a word, bringing depth and intrigue to the character.

Paul shares his apartment (that used to belong to his parents) with his two eccentric aunts, played by the remarkable Bernadette Lafont and Hélène Vincent. This duo of former dance stars fills Paul’s life with a vibrant and boisterous energy – something he himself lacks, but seems to yearn for secretly. Each aunt has her share of quirks and habits, and they regale Paul with tales from their dancing days, offering a lively counterpoint to his quiet existence.

Paul's fascination with piano garners the attention of his neighbor Madame Proust (played by the versatile Anne Le Ny). She reminds Paul of his mother, and through her, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Madame Proust introduces him to the wonders of herbal tea, which enables him to revisit his repressed childhood memories in vivid dreams and imaginations. These sequences, portrayed through beautifully composed memory scenes, are where Chomet’s storytelling style truly shines. They combine both magical realism and heightened drama, transporting audiences into a world of surrealist spectacle that's interlaced with emotional depth.

The production design and cinematography of Attila Marcel are noteworthy and contribute significantly to the overall viewing experience. Chomet’s penchant for vibrant, effusive color palettes is utilized to a delightful degree, bringing a sense of whimsical charm to the film. The beautifully ornate sets teeter between the lines of reality and flights of extravagant imagination, complementing the film’s overall narrative style. The movie often feels like a richly illustrated children's book brought to life, a hallmark of director Chomet’s distinctive style.

Ultimately, Attila Marcel is a heartfelt story told through the realm of magical realism. This is Sylvain Chomet’s first live-action feature, but it carries a distinct signature that is evident in his previous animations like "The Triplets of Belleville" and "The Illusionist." It is about seeking solace in the familiar while exploring the magic of the unknown, and about a man who – even in his silence – embarks on a journey of self-discovery with the help of his music and the eccentric characters that surround him.

The film boasts a talented ensemble of performers who breathe life into their interestingly quirky characters. Guillaume Gouix heading the band leads the pack with an astutely silent but impactful performance. The film’s exploration of themes like memory, loss, and self-discovery are delivered through a combination of magical realism and absurd humor, wrapped gorgeously in a kaleidoscope of bombastic colors and captivating imagery.

Chomet’s Attila Marcel offers audiences a uniquely artistic viewing experience that is both entertaining and contemplative. It is a symphony of vibrant visuals, endearing performances, and enchanting storytelling that is sure to captivate audiences who appreciate cinema that pushes boundaries and is unafraid to explore new realms of creativity.