Chrysalis (2007)
Directed by Julien Leclercq

Film Review

Julien Leclercq's attempts to forge his own distinctive aesthetic with his debut feature are compromised as much by his lack of experience as by the budget at his disposal.  Chrysalis is a deeply flawed masterpiece, its breathtaking stylistic bravado totally undercut by some inescapable failings on the writing and acting fronts.  Even with a lead actor as capable and charismatic as Albert Dupontel the film struggles to hold itself together and swiftly degenerates into a series of punchy action set-pieces separated by unbearable longueurs.  Leclercq's dark futuristic homage to Franju's Les Yeux sans visage makes uncomfortable viewing but it reveals a director with considerable flair, guts and imagination.  Alas, the latter need to be tempered by discipline, maturity and respect for his audience before Leclercq can make any real impact as a cinematic innovator.

Film Synopsis

Paris, 2020.  David Hoffman is a police lieutenant who has yet to get over the death of his wife, the victim of an elusive killer named Nicolov.  When another woman is found murdered, Hoffman is teamed up with a young police inspector, Marie Becker.  Their investigation leads them to a technologically advanced clinic run by Professor Brügen.  The latter is prepared to do anything to erase the damage caused by a car accident she was in with her daughter...