The Stranger: This B&W French Film Based On The Camus Novel Is A Masterpiece

There have been several high-quality French films released in recent months and The Stranger is the latest dramatic offering that should be of interest to lovers of arthouse cinema.

Written and directed by François Ozon, this film is based on the 1942 novel written by Albert Camus and premiered at the Venice International Film Festival.

Beautifully filmed in black and white this story on the surface seems simplistic, but there are so many significant underlying themes that may easily be overlooked.

The story delves on a Frenchman named Meursault who lives in French Algeria. He’s strangely indifferent, devoid of any emotions and soon after his mother’s death kills an Arab man in cold blood. Charged with murder, legal proceedings follow where the crime and notably his character, are heavily examined in court.

Evidence shows that he has a cold persona – stoic and detached from human feelings. Could this characteristic be a coping mechanism? Is it not possible that a man can process grief differently? Meursault is described as a monster but is his emotional detachment a sign of heartlessness and a lack of humanity or just a personal disposition?

In the opening scene Meursault is in prison on a murder charge. Through flashbacks audiences learn of his life, his behavioural patterns and what propelled him to murder.

Benjamin Voisin portrays Meursault, the stranger on trial who may face execution for his crime. He delivers the performance of a lifetime with passion and authenticity – he doesn’t just say the lines; he gives credence to the role.

This film is effectively a slow burner. Momentum builds in the final act during the trial sequences. Audiences will be astonished at the change in Meursault’s demeanour, who is initially soft spoken and of few words, but ultimately becomes enraged as he speaks of the irrationality and meaningless of life.

There are various underlying themes explored in this narrative. Living life emotionally detached and challenging conventional values and social pressures are the principal themes, but the story also touches on racism and the struggles of indigenous Algerians.

“No one cares about the death of my brother… he’s an Arab,” laments the sister of the deceased man

Meursault also has a physical attraction to a woman but is unable to connect emotionally which emphasises that he lives in a world of isolation.

The black and white cinematography captures the very essence of the story, enhancing the themes, mood and atmosphere of the narrative. It also intensifies the sensuality and intimacy in the graphic sexual scenes.

The Stranger is a story of a man who is literally a stranger to himself…. An unparalleled achievement and masterclass in storytelling – a cinematic masterpiece…

****1/2

The Stranger is in cinemas from April 16.