Fifth about The Seventh

Divertimento

Divertimento: the story of Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar’s film is inspired by a true story, that of a young conductor-to-be in Paris, as she faces all the (usual) obstacles because of her gender, her ethnic background, her social class, and her address. The film even has a villain, but (smartly) keeps the focus out of him; instead, the journey is about her connection to the work itself. The film’s last scene, a rendition of a famed classical music pice, is emotionally charged because of the music, but mostly because of the connection that the serious, talented protagonist invites. Oulaya Amamra is very good as the protagonist, displaying both the insecurity and the euphory when conducting. The rest of the performances are fine but not memorable, including Niels Arestrup as her mentor. Cinematographer Naomi Amarger captures the action well, and editor Benoît Quinon gives the film a good rythm. The sound design is rather solid, smartly incorporating the sounds of the city into the music.

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