Le secret de la chambre noire

Le secret de la chambre noire, or Dennis in English, is a 2016 Franco-Japanese drama film. The film is a co-production between France and Japan and is an engaging blend of elements from both East Asian and Western tradition. Its star-studded cast features Tahar Rahim, Constance Rousseau, and Olivier Gourmet. The film was written by co-writing duo Elise McLeod and Kiyoshi Kurosawa, directed by Artus de Penguern.

Le secret de la chambre noire, as the title suggests, revolves around the mystery, dark art, obsession, and love that revolved in a darkroom. The film focuses on the character of Jean (Tahar Rahim), a young Frenchman who finds himself in the mysterious and traditional world of daguerreotype photography in modern-day Tokyo.

Jean, who had recently lost his job, is employed by Stéphane (Olivier Gourmet), a renowned, but fading, French daguerreotypist living in Japan for many years. Stéphane lives alone with his daughter and muse, Marie (Constance Rousseau). Marie shares her father’s dedication to the antiquated photographic process which involves posing for hours and requires a massive, old-fashioned camera. Their world is one of mystery and isolation, where time seems to stand still, and the modern world doesn’t quite reach.

Jean becomes a part of this world, hoping to learn from Stéphan, his art of daguerreotype, and the science behind it. He also develops an intimate relationship with the ethereal Marie. Meanwhile, Jean's girlfriend in Paris begins to question his lengthy absence and his commitment to their relationship, adding more tension to the plot.

The film explores the dichotomy between the world of aging Stéphane, cloaked in the photographic traditions of the 19th century, and the world outside, which is quintessential, bustling Tokyo. Despite being set in Japan, the movie's dialogue is mainly in French, adding a unique twist to the narrative.

The story delves deep into the characters’ journeys, their motivations, and fears. Tahar Rahim brings a very organic and genuine interpretation of Jean, taking the audience along as he navigates his way through an unfamiliar humble Japanese house turned into a photography museum. Olivier Gourmet delivers a captivating performance as the older Stéphane, portraying his obsession with his art and his love for his daughter with perfect balance. Constance Rousseau as Marie does not have many lines, but her presence is felt throughout the film, with her pale, ethereal beauty capturing the viewer's eye.

Setting and visuals are important components of this film, playing into the themes of time, tradition, and transient beauty. The quiet modesty of the Japanese home, along with the antiquated daguerreotype camera setup, contrasts with the hustle of Tokyo's cityscape, emphasizing the isolation felt by the characters. The extensive detail given to the process of daguerreotype photography, combined with the mesmerizing acting of veteran actors and actresses, fuels the mysterious atmosphere that looms throughout the film.

The score, composed by Gregoire Hetzel, adds depth to the movie, further enhancing the mystery and the complexity. It eases the audience into a trance-like state mimicking the long hours the characters spend in the darkroom.

This understated film is structured with slow and deliberate pacing and carries a haunting tone throughout, giving it an almost ghostly, ethereal quality that lingers with the audience long after the final scene fades away. It is a haunting blend of drama, mystery, and romance that explores themes of art, old versus new, and the depths individuals go through for their passions.

Le secret de la chambre noire is an atmospheric, mesmerizing, and intriguing film that combines the beauty and a mystery of the antiquated process of the daguerreotype with a modern setting. The contrast creates a tale that is sure to captivate its audience. This blend of genres, cultures, and eras makes for a very unique cinematic experience. As such, the film offers a thought-provoking watch for those who enjoy offbeat cinema that is rich in atmospheric visuals and offers a deep insight into complex human emotions.