Genealogies of a Crime

Genealogies of a Crime is a riveting 1997 French-Austrian drama film inspired by real events, a thrilling crime drama that treads the line into psychological exploration territory. Acclaimed director Raúl Ruiz leads the narrative, showcasing his artistic flair and dexterity for unfolding mysteries. Catherine Deneuve, Michel Piccoli, and Melvil Poupaud offer compelling performances, painting a chilling picture of the human condition through the lens of a murder case.

In this film, Catherine Deneuve shines as Renée, a successful defense attorney known for regularly undertaking the cases of the downtrodden and persecuted. The enigmatic undertone of the narrative is set when Renée is compelled to defend a man she begins to fear may indeed be guilty. She is approached to protect a young man named René (played by Melvil Poupaud), accused of killing his wealthy aunt, Jeanne (also played by Catherine Deneuve). René, deeply psychologically disturbed, claims to have been influenced by the teachings of practicing psychoanalyst Georges Didier (played by Michel Piccoli).

The film oscillates between two timelines: one following Renée's investigation into René's case, the other delving into the complex relationship between Jeanne and Didier. Via a series of flashbacks, we explore the latter's unique therapeutic methods. Didier believes in a theory called "genealogy of crime" wherein criminal traits are passed down across generations. Jeanne, his believer and patient, faces the crux of his methods when her nephew René starts getting into her head under Didier's guidance.

Genealogies of a Crime stands apart due to its surrealistic and non-linear narrative style. The film uses intense symbolism and metaphors to layer the complexity of its story and to tackle the grave subject matter of possible inherited criminality and the ethical boundaries of psychological therapy. It asks: Can culpability be inherent? What role does upbringing play in determining one's moral compass? Is it feasible to manipulate someone into becoming a murderer?

The role of Catherine Deneuve showcases her range as an actor. She gracefully transcends the dual role of Renée and Jeanne, creating distinctive and complex characters. Whether she is unveiling her assertive, crusading lawyer persona or embodying Jeanne, who's caught in the spiraling obsessions of Didier and René, Deneuve’s performance is captivating.

Similarly, the role of Michel Piccoli is of equal charm and intrigue. Piccoli plays his flawed yet engrossing character with a charismatic nuance that energizes the narrative. Melvil Poupaud too, in his depiction of René, excels by offering a brooding performance centered around his character's mental instability.

Ruiz masterfully uses the actors and their layered performances to get to the heart of a complex narrative. His cinematic touch highlights his talent in exploring deeply unsettling and profound themes through a crime story. He structures a multifaceted narrative pulsating with shocking revelations, dotted with a surreal ambiance that blurs the line between reality and perception. It is not a conventional crime drama; rather, it blends elements of mystery, film noir, and psychological thriller genres to create an atmosphere that is both suspenseful and disturbing.

The screenplay, written by Ruiz and co-writer Pascal Bonitzer, punctuates the storyline with its fancy for bizarre occurrences. The complexity of the plot offers no easy answers but instead leaves the audience pondering the nature of crime, justice, and manipulation.

On a technical level, the film is equally remarkable. The emotional depth and varying timeline of the story is accentuated through precise cinematography and apt use of symbolism. The film's eerie soundtrack, by Jorge Arriagada, adds another level of suspense to the narrative.

Genealogies of a Crime is a dramatic exploration of morality, ethics, mental health, and perhaps how these dimensions interact to shape an individual's destiny. The film poses profound questions about the roots of crime, allowing viewers to grapple with the link between genetic history and culpability, justice, and punishment. This is a film that intrigues and mystifies, gripping viewers with a compelling and unique narrative that stimulates both the intellect and the emotions. For those seeking a film that goes beyond simple entertainment to truly engage with its audience, "Genealogies of a Crime" is not to be missed.