For this third day of the Festival, the selection of “Un Certain Regard” showcased numerous films. Two French films kicked off the event: “Tirailleurs” by Mathieu Vadepied and “Rodéo” by Lola Quivoron.
The “Un Certain Regard” category awards the best first film. This work by Lola Quivoron is not only a debut but also an experience in terms of the entire production and cast.
For a first film, the theme may initially unsettle since it deals with a young girl’s passion for motorcycles in a neighborhood.
Portrayed by an outstanding Julie Ledru in her first film, Julia is a motorcycle enthusiast, willing to do anything to ride and feel the scent of the asphalt. A thief, wild yet mysterious, we watch her evolve throughout the film, displaying different personalities depending on her encounters and relationships. Insolent to motorcycle dealers, rejected by her family and the bikers in her neighborhood, attracted to a mother and her son, Julie Ledru excels in all her facets.
Beyond Julie Ledru’s performance, it is an entirely novice cast (except for Antonia Buresi) that proved to be more than up to the task. Films set in urban neighborhoods can sometimes rely on actors with stereotypical portrayals meant solely to project an image of the troubled area. This is not the case with “Rodéo,” which highlights the distinct personalities of its characters and the various relationships they maintain.
With a powerful and unexpected ending, “Rodéo” concludes with a scene that is representative of the film, blending emotions, motorcycles, and the fiery character of Julia, who is the centerpiece of the film.
