A Triumph (an ironic title…) is inspired by a true story that took place in Sweden some time ago.
The synopsis is simple at first glance: a somewhat washed-up actor puts on a Beckett play with inmates, initially reluctant but then enthusiastic, for this very unique escape attempt.
You more or less expect a development in the style of “it’s complicated at first but eventually the prisoners get into it”, and that’s indeed the case, but the film is surprising with its rapid pace, its refusal of easy psychology, and its stance of showing us the prison only when the future play is in rehearsal, without dwelling on life inside the penal institution.
There’s an obvious Feel Good Movie aspect to A Triumph, with the delight of seeing a project taking shape whose achievement seems to constantly encounter insurmountable obstacles. The film is also a lovely tribute to theater actors, with the added idea that culture is accessible to everyone, even with a play as challenging as “Waiting for Godot”.
Admittedly, there are a few naive aspects in the film, but they contribute to the evident humanism that radiates throughout.
Kad Merad holds the lead role with a brilliance that should lead him straight to a nomination at the upcoming Cรฉsar Awards. Not to mention that he is extremely well supported by Marina Hands, Laurent Stocker, and his other fellow cast members, with real character and flair, to the point where you wonder if they aren’t real inmates rehearsing Godot.
