The Twentieth Century

The Twentieth Century is a 2019 Canadian film that can best be described as an avant-garde period piece, reimagining Canada's past political events. Directed and written by Matthew Rankin, the film features an ensemble cast led by Dan Beirne, Sarianne Cormier, Catherine St-Laurent, and Mikhaïl Ahooja. The plot primarily concerns the early political life of a young William Lyon Mackenzie King, provoking further exploration of the mechanisms of Canadian history.

The narrative showcases Beirne in the star role of Mackenzie King, a man destined to become the Prime Minister of Canada, according to his strong-willed mother. Beirne delivers an arresting performance as King, brilliantly capturing the character's ambition, naivety, and array of quirky, ever-so-slightly twisted personality traits. Sarianne Cormier breathes life into the character of Nurse Lapointe, a plain-spoken Quebecker woman, while Catherine St-Laurent plays Ruby Elliot, a wealthy and beautiful upper-class woman who King aspires to court.

Set in 1899 the story, although based on historical events, is a tongue-in-cheek reinvention rather than a faithful retelling. The film features eccentric interpretations of high political drama, skeletons in the politician's cupboard, his struggle for power and the youthful ideology that often dictates a nation's pathway.

The film is infused with an unparalleled aesthetic quality that's a blend of Expressionism, synesthetic visuals, and unexpected touch of humor. High-contrast visuals, a peculiar mix of pastel and neon-color palettes, distorted scenery that feels plucked out of a theatrical stage and a dream-like ambiance define its visual language. The film exhibits a unique, mesmerizing identity through its innovative production and art design offering a delightful viewing experience that teeters on the edge of absurdity and surrealism. It's Canada as you've never seen before.

Furthermore, The Twentieth Century also dives deep into numerous socio-political themes. Iconography, political ambition, and sexual fetishism all find themselves inextricably entwined in the bizarre, surreal tapestry of King's life as depicted in the film. More than a simple caricature, the film seeks to underscore Canada's cultural history, identity, and politics, simultaneously inviting the viewers to question the historical context while getting a kick out of its oddball humor.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its distinct comedic approach. The humor is not only reserved for the artistic design but is also evident in the exaggerated performances, tongue-in-cheek dialogues, and absurd plot sequences. The film strikes an engaging balance between social critique and humor. Its comedy is executed through scenarios that are often absurd, surreal, and highly symbolic, which may not be to everyone's taste but undoubtedly provide a fresh, unique angle.

At its core, The Twentieth Century is a multifaceted film that fuses political satire, a love triangle, and quirkiness into a cinematic kaleidoscope. It questions and challenges the polished, often overly simplified narratives of historical events and political figures. It instead offers an account that's more human and, albeit distorted, sometimes more true-to-life.

The Twentieth Century is a commendable entry in the canon of experimental cinema for its audacity to break free from conventional storytelling and presentation norms. It is a film that allows audiences to remotely travel in time and space while pushing the boundaries of what cinema can accomplish. It's a fascinating compilation of eccentricities smacked right in the heart of political and personal drama, making it a fascinating watch for anyone willing to traverse the less-traveled paths of cinematic narratives.

In short, The Twentieth Century, with its unique mixture of history, humor, and hues, is sure to challenge, entertain, and leave an impression on anyone craving a taste of something audaciously different.