Vivre me tue (2002)
Directed by Jean-Pierre Sinapi

Film Review

An exploration of brotherly love and the painful struggle to find one's way in the world are the central themes in this poignant drama from director Jean-Pierre Sinapi.  It is Sinapi's second film, after the controversial (and totally different) National 7 (2001).  Whilst the film's dramatic thrust is weakened by an unnecessarily sophisticated narrative structure (which, like the novel it is based on, tells the story in flashbacks), it succeeds in conveying the sense of alienation and hopelessness of two brothers who seem unable to break out of their social milieu and realise their ambitions.

The film's power and sense of uncompromising realism stems mainly from the superlative performances from its two lead actors.  Jalil Lespert is virtually unrecognisable as the gay bodybuilding obsessive Daniel; his preparation for the part has completely altered both his physique and his personality in a way that adds something to the tragedy of his character's predicament.  Sami Bouajila is at least recognisable as Daniel's brother but his performance is no less exceptional.  This is an actor who conveys inner feelings and mood to devastating effect, and with a natural honesty which makes him the darling of critics and much sought after by serious filmmakers in France.  Although her contribution is reduced to that of a supporting role, another great performer - Sylvie Testud - makes her presence felt, bringing a touch of human compassion and optimism to lift what may otherwise have been a heavy, leaden drama.

Film Synopsis

Paul Smaïl, 27, is an ambitious young man of Arab descent living in Paris with his parents and younger brother Daniel.  Despite his impressive qualifications, Paul has difficulty finding a professional job and ends up working as a pizza delivery boy.  Meanwhile, his brother, having failed his school exams three times, has become obsessed with bodybuilding and starts taking dangerous drugs to enhance his physique.  Paul begins a relationship with a shy young student, Myriam, who is writing a thesis on romantic literature and who tries to persuade Paul that he should become a writer.  It looks as though things may be starting to go right for Daniel when he finds a rich German who offers him everything: love, a home, a career.  How soon it all ends in tragedy….