Fake Tattoos

Fake Tattoos is a 2017 compelling and heartwarming Canadian drama film, set against the vibrant and music-laden backdrop of Montreal. Directed and penning his debut, Pascal Plante demonstrates his artistry by melding an eclectic soundtrack with a realist style narration, presenting an intimate exploration of youthful love, identity, self-discovery, and connection.

The story begins with a chance encounter between two youngsters. The introverted Theo, portrayed with a harmonious blend of vulnerability and reticence by Anthony Therrien, is celebrating his 18th birthday alone at a punk rock show. A meeting with the charismatic, effusive, and indomitable Mag, embraced passionately by Rose-Marie Perreault, appears to be a routine after-concert meet-cute. As they retreat from the cacophony of the music scene, their apparent dissimilarities gradually recede, unveiling a profound and unexpected bond.

The movie is a poetic portrayal of first love that ticks all the boxes of moody, wistful romantic drama – exciting, emotionally hefty, fraught with quiet moments that speak volumes and flawlessly captures the highs and lows of a young relationship. It strife through the common whimsy of teenage life, the ebb and flow of first love, underscored by a weighted anticipation of future. Plante does a fantastic job in touching upon complex issues such as alienation, rebellion, emotional baggage, and the fear of forthcoming separation without making it heavy-handed.

Therrien portrays Theo as a reticent young man, quietly dealing with past wounds, baring his soul only through his affection for music. Despite having a struggling family life and a past he prefers to keep to himself, Theo's character evolves from being mysterious to a compassionate lover, with his emotional journey masterfully etched out.

Perreault, on the other hand, shines as Mag, the vibrant punk girl with an infectious energy and a forthright attitude. She is refreshingly honest, which serves as a foil to Theo's guarded nature. However, as the story progresses, we learn more about Mag, her yearning for connection, and the vulnerability she hides behind her buoyant demeanor. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, their performances complementing each other brilliantly and making their relationship believable and resonating.

The third major character of the movie is its music. The film's extensive soundtrack, a mix of punk rock, garage, and folk music, is seamlessly incorporated into the narrative, forming an integral part of the characters' journeys. It heartily serves as the emotional underlay of this love story, marking pivotal narrative beats, offering a deeper insight into the characters, and setting the tone of their relationship. Scenically, the pulsating city of Montreal lulled with illumination of street lamps and blanketed under fluffy tendrils of snow provides a distinct aesthetic feel to the narrative.

What stands out is the director's unique storytelling style. There is an ultimate realism throughout the film which morphs the experience into something utterly immersive. The casual conversations, subtle expressions, physical interactions, everything is rendered in great detail. Instead of dramatic, overarching conflict, we're presented with tiny, every-day battles, making us lend our ear to the conversations and become a part of their world. The cinematography too, deserves a mention, it beautifully sequences the narrative, emphasizing on the subtleties of the character's dynamics.

The movie aptly titled, 'Fake Tattoos,' symbolizes the momentary yet impactful relationship between Theo and Mag, just like a temporary tattoo which imprints memory. They mirror the youthful uncertainty, the poignant transience of youthful desires, ideals, passions, and attachments.

Overall, Plante's feature debut is an assured one. It's a raw, genuine, gripping tale filled with youthful charm, vitality, and vulnerability. The film is familiar in its thematic exploration yet feels refreshing in its execution, thanks to the excellent performances and the remarkable instance of Millennial storytelling. 'Fake Tattoos', more than a film, feels like a very personal encounter with the characters that digs deep into the innocence of first love and leaves you reminiscing about your youth. Be prepared to be swept off your feet by its realness, as it shines starkly with its simplicity and authenticity.