Exploring the Complex Narrative of The Beast (2023) by Bonello
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Chapter 1: A Journey Through Time and Emotion
Bertrand Bonello's films are renowned for their eclectic and often enigmatic nature, and The Beast is no exception. This 2023 release presents a labyrinthine narrative that may challenge viewers. However, if one embraces Bonello's artistic vision, they may discover a remarkable film that seamlessly weaves together elements of science fiction and melodrama, reminiscent of David Lynch's Lost Highway (1997) or Mulholland Drive (2001).
In The Beast, we follow Gabrielle (Léa Seydoux), a woman determined to erase all emotional traces from her DNA in a bid to enhance her productivity and eliminate unhappiness. Set in a dystopian future dominated by artificial intelligence, Gabrielle embarks on a journey through her past lives in 1910, 2014, and 2044. In each of these eras, she encounters Louis (George MacKay), portrayed more as a threat than a romantic ideal. The film artfully navigates these time periods, seeking connections and resonances in their tragic relationship.
Section 1.1: The Parisian Belle Époque
The narrative's most straightforward segment unfolds in 1910 during the Parisian belle époque, where Gabrielle shines as a celebrated pianist, attracting the admiration of a young Louis. The specter of infidelity looms large, adding tension to their relationship. One of the film's most surreal and poetic moments occurs when water floods the factory where the protagonists are situated, effectively extinguishing any hope for their love.
Section 1.2: Transformations Across Time
Moving to 2014, the dynamics shift dramatically as Louis embodies the film’s titular beast, adopting a more violent and unsettling demeanor. The year 2044 presents the most challenging narrative layer, potentially alienating viewers with its intricate storytelling and complexity.
The Beast - Official US Trailer offers a glimpse into Bonello's intricate world, showcasing its visual and thematic richness.
Subsection 1.2.1: Love as a Fearsome Entity
Drawing loosely from Henry James's work, The Beast in the Jungle, Bonello's film delves into numerous themes, with love prevailing as a central, albeit fearsome, motif. The chemistry between Léa Seydoux and George MacKay is palpable, as they display remarkable versatility across the various time periods.
Chapter 2: Aesthetic Craftsmanship and Vision
Bonello's meticulous attention to detail enhances the film's aesthetic appeal. From costumes to makeup, the artistic direction reflects a contemporary understanding of cinematic artistry. The music, crafted by Bonello himself, adds a hypnotic quality that resonates with the film's narrative.
Bertrand Bonello on The Beast | NYFF61 provides insights into the film's creation and thematic explorations.
While the film's length, at 146 minutes, may feel excessive at times, with certain sequences appearing as filler, it stands out as perhaps Bonello's most commercially accessible work to date. This contrasts sharply with the minimalism of his previous project, Coma (2022), and diverges from the celebrated House of Tolerance (2011). Nonetheless, The Beast will undoubtedly hold a significant place in Bonello's filmography.
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