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New Movies: Animale (2024) by Emma Benestan: When Fierce Ambition Meets Primal Fury in the Camargue

  • Writer: dailyentertainment95
    dailyentertainment95
  • Jul 4
  • 13 min read

Core Summary: A Female Bull-Runner's Fight for Survival and Identity

"Animale" (2024) is a compelling French, Belgian, and Saudi Arabian co-production directed and co-written by Emma Benestan, known for her previous work "Fragile" (2021). The film stars Oulaya Amamra as Nejma, a determined 22-year-old woman training tirelessly to achieve her dream of winning the traditional bull race in the Camargue region of France—a spectacle known for its agility and respect between humans and beasts, and a world typically dominated by men. As Nejma navigates this hyper-masculine environment and trains to prove herself, a series of suspicious disappearances and brutal murders begin to terrorize the community. Rumors spread that a wild, rogue beast is on the prowl, savagely goring young men. "Animale" masterfully blends elements of drama, thriller, and subtle horror, exploring themes of gender roles, toxic masculinity, the primal nature of ambition, and a young woman's struggle for self-acceptance as she confronts both external threats and unsettling internal transformations. The film premiered as the closing film of Critics' Week at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024 and had its North American premiere at Fantastic Fest 2024. It is set for a French theatrical release on November 27, 2024.

Snapshot: Camargue, Female Racer, Toxic Masculinity, Mysterious Killings, Primal Transformation

In the male-dominated world of French bull-running, a determined young woman faces not only fierce competition and pervasive sexism but also the terror of a mysterious, deadly beast and a disturbing personal metamorphosis.

Deep Dive: Beyond the Arena, a Battle for Identity and Safety

"Animale" is praised for its genre-bending approach, using the backdrop of bull-running to explore deeper social and psychological themes.

Key aspects that define "Animale":

  • Genre Hybrid: The film seamlessly blends drama, thriller, and elements of body horror/supernatural mystery. It's often described as a "modern Western" or a "metaphorical fantasy film."

  • Unique Setting: The Camargue region of Southern France, famous for its distinctive bull-running tradition (course camarguaise, where bulls are not killed), provides a rich and visually striking backdrop for the story.

  • Feminist Narrative: At its core, the film is a powerful exploration of a woman's place in a heavily male-dominated and often toxic environment. Nejma's struggle for respect and safety is central, and her transformation becomes a metaphor for female rage and resilience.

  • Metamorphosis Theme: Nejma begins to experience disturbing physical and psychological changes after a traumatic incident, leading to a "Minotaur-like" transformation that symbolizes her struggle with identity, suppressed instincts, and the violence she faces.

  • Toxic Masculinity and Power Dynamics: The film acutely observes the casual sexism and underlying aggression Nejma encounters from her male peers, highlighting the dangers she faces both inside and outside the arena.

  • Ambiguity and Subtlety: While it has horror elements, the film often leans into metaphorical rather than explicit horror, allowing the audience to interpret Nejma's transformation and the nature of the "beast."

  • Strong Lead Performance: Oulaya Amamra (known from "Divines") delivers a compelling and magnetic portrayal of Nejma, anchoring the film's emotional and physical demands.

  • Director's Personal Connection: Emma Benestan, who grew up in the Camargue region, brings an authentic understanding and deep respect for the culture, while also providing a critical feminist lens.

"Animale" is celebrated for its ambition and skill in crafting a unique, thought-provoking narrative that uses genre elements to delve into contemporary social issues.

The Journey: From Ambition to Unraveling Realities

  • Entering a Man's World: Nejma, a determined 22-year-old, trains rigorously to excel in the Camargue bull race, a dangerous and traditional sport almost exclusively for men. She works hard to earn respect among the "gardians" (bull herders) and raseteurs (bull runners).

  • Subtle Sexism and Brewing Tensions: Despite her strength and skill, Nejma constantly navigates the casual sexism and condescending attitudes of her male counterparts. Her mother worries for her safety in this environment.

  • A Dark Incident: After a night of revelry, Nejma is left vulnerable and exposed in a field of bulls. She wakes up disoriented, with an unexplained wound, unsure of what transpired, but unsettling changes begin to occur within her.

  • The Reign of Terror: Simultaneously, a series of brutal attacks unfold in the region. Young men are found gored to death, leading to rumors of a mysterious, violent wild bull on the loose, terrorizing the community.

  • Transformation and Confrontation: As the killings escalate, Nejma's physical and psychological state deteriorates, and she increasingly identifies with the bulls, experiencing a metamorphosis that mirrors her growing rage and defiance. She is forced to confront both the literal monster preying on men and the figurative monsters of toxic masculinity.

  • A Metaphorical Reckoning: The film builds towards a confrontation where Nejma's struggle for freedom and safety battles external and internal forces, leading to a powerful, albeit often subtle, commentary on violence against women and the need for self-acceptance in a hostile world.

Director's Lens: Emma Benestan's Bold and Incisive Vision

Emma Benestan demonstrates significant artistic ambition and skill in her second feature, tackling complex themes with a distinctive directorial voice.

  • Genre Blending with Purpose: Benestan uses the framework of a thriller/horror to explore deeper social commentary on gender roles and toxic masculinity, subverting expectations while maintaining a compelling narrative.

    • Filmmakers seeking to deliver social critiques effectively should consider genre blending as a powerful tool. By embedding serious themes within engaging genre narratives, they can reach wider audiences and provoke thought in a less didactic, more immersive way.

  • Empathetic Portrayal of a Strong Female Protagonist: Nejma is portrayed with both strength and vulnerability as she navigates a challenging world. Benestan creates a character who actively pushes back against oppression, even as she experiences internal turmoil.

    • When developing female protagonists, directors should focus on creating multi-dimensional characters who are not merely reactive but possess agency, internal conflict, and a clear drive, allowing them to lead compelling narratives that challenge stereotypes and resonate with modern audiences.

  • Drawing on Personal and Cultural Roots: Benestan's connection to the Camargue region lends authenticity and depth to the film's setting and the traditions depicted, enriching the narrative with a strong sense of place and cultural specificity.

    • Filmmakers can imbue their stories with unique textures and genuine emotional weight by drawing inspiration from their personal backgrounds, cultural heritage, or specific geographical locations they know intimately. This authenticity can elevate a film from generic to truly distinctive.

Central Themes: Gender Roles, Toxic Masculinity, Identity, Transformation, Revenge, and Humanity vs. Wildness

  • Gender and Power: The struggle of a woman to assert herself and gain respect in a predominantly male, physically demanding environment.

  • Toxic Masculinity: The film dissects the insidious nature of casual sexism, predatory behavior, and the violence stemming from a hyper-masculine culture.

  • Transformation and Identity: Nejma's physical and psychological metamorphosis as a metaphor for embracing inner rage, reclaiming power, or transcending societal expectations.

  • Human vs. Animal Instinct: Exploring the primal instincts within humans, the fine line between civility and savagery, and a connection to the natural world.

  • Victimhood and Agency: How an individual processes trauma and finds a way to fight back, whether literally or figuratively.

Why It Shines: A Visually Striking and Intellectually Engaging Experience

  • Original Premise: A unique blend of bull-running drama, coming-of-age story, and psychological thriller/horror.

  • Powerful Central Performance: Oulaya Amamra delivers a captivating and physically demanding portrayal.

  • Strong Visuals and Atmosphere: The Camargue setting is beautifully captured, and the film effectively builds a sense of dread and mystery.

  • Thought-Provoking Themes: Explores timely issues of gender, violence, and identity in a compelling way.

  • Ambitious Directorial Vision: Emma Benestan confidently crafts a nuanced, genre-defying film that resonates beyond its initial premise.

Critics Reception: Praised for Ambition, Visuality, and Amamra's Performance

"Animale" received largely positive reviews from critics following its Cannes premiere and subsequent festival screenings. It was particularly lauded for its ambitious genre-blending, striking visuals, and Oulaya Amamra's lead performance.

  • Genre Hybrid and Boldness: Critics highlighted the film's unique blend. Screen Daily called it a "handsome executed genre piece," a "hybrid" that is "visually striking and thematically rich." [Source: Screen Daily, "'Animale': Cannes Review," May 22, 2024] Cineuropa praised Benestan for delivering a "modern western and metaphorical fantasy film." [Source: Cineuropa, "Review: Animale," May 22, 2024]

  • Oulaya Amamra's Performance: Amamra received widespread acclaim. Screen Daily noted her "magnetically pugnacious lead gives Animale a consistent pull," while Whitlock&Pope stated she delivers a "compelling performance." [Source: Screen Daily, May 22, 2024; Whitlock&Pope, "Animale – Fantastic Fest review," September 24, 2024]

  • Visuals and Cinematography: Ruben Impens's cinematography was frequently praised, capturing the Camargue's beauty and the bulls' power. Whitlock&Pope described the film as "visually striking" and "beautifully shot." [Source: Whitlock&Pope, September 24, 2024]

  • Thematic Depth: Reviewers appreciated the film's exploration of gender, toxic masculinity, and transformation. Film Movement press notes highlight it as a "deeply felt and subtly played story of community, betrayal, rebellion, denial and self-acceptance." [Source: Film Movement press notes for "Animale"]

  • Mixed on Narrative Clarity/Pacing: Some reviews, like Screen Daily, mentioned potential "clunkiness" or that the "metaphorical dimension and the real subject... are so predictable that the piece is clearly altered, with vigour not replacing subtlety." Others, like Whitlock&Pope, noted it "doesn't fully commit to its body-horror potential," leaving some horror elements underdeveloped.

Overall Summary: "Animale" is recognized as an ambitious, visually arresting, and thematically rich film that pushes boundaries, largely succeeding due to Emma Benestan's bold direction and Oulaya Amamra's powerful performance, despite some minor narrative qualms for certain critics.

Audience Reactions: Anticipating Fascination and Debate

With its festival premieres and upcoming theatrical release, audience reactions are still forming, but based on critical reception and the film's premise, anticipated responses include:

  • Intrigue from Genre Fans: Those drawn to horror, thrillers, or genre-bending narratives will be fascinated by its unique blend.

  • Appreciation for Feminist Themes: Audiences seeking strong female protagonists and critiques of patriarchal structures will likely find the film highly resonant.

  • Visual Immersion: The striking setting and cinematography are expected to captivate viewers.

  • Discussion Starter: The film's ambiguous horror elements and its exploration of complex social issues are likely to spark significant conversation and debate.

  • Mixed Reactions on Pacing/Horror: Some viewers might wish for more overt horror or a faster pace, while others will appreciate its subtle, psychological approach.

Overall Summary: "Animale" is expected to engage audiences who appreciate artful cinema that explores challenging themes, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience that lingers beyond the screen.

Box Office Performance: Festival Buzz to Arthouse Release

"Animale," as a French-Belgian-Saudi Arabian co-production, is positioned as an independent arthouse film with its box office performance primarily driven by festival buzz and targeted releases.

  • Festival Premieres: Premiered as the closing film of Critics' Week at Cannes 2024, followed by a North American premiere at Fantastic Fest 2024 and screenings at other festivals like Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. This provides crucial critical acclaim and initial visibility.

  • French Theatrical Release: Set for a theatrical release in France on November 27, 2024, which will be its primary market.

  • International Sales: Film Constellation is handling international sales, suggesting a staggered release in various territories depending on distribution deals.

  • Niche Appeal: Its genre-bending nature and thematic depth target a more discerning audience, suggesting a more modest but respectable box office performance typical for independent European cinema, bolstered by strong word-of-mouth.

Overall Summary: "Animale" is expected to perform well within its arthouse niche, leveraging its festival prestige and critical acclaim to find its audience through strategic international distribution and a focused French theatrical run.

Production Notes: An International Co-Production

  • Original Title: Animale

  • Directed by: Emma Benestan

  • Written by: Emma Benestan, Julie Debiton, Vincent Le Port

  • Main Cast:

    • Oulaya Amamra as Nejma

    • Vivien Rodriguez as Kylian

    • Marinette Rafaï as Ouarda (Nejma's mother)

    • Damien Rebattel as Tony

    • Claude Chaballier as Léonard

    • Elies-Morgan Admi-Bensellam as Jordan

  • Genre: Drama, Thriller, Horror, Feminist Western (critics' description)

  • Countries of Production: France, Belgium, Saudi Arabia

  • Language: French

  • Running Time: 98 minutes (1h 38m)

  • Cinematography: Ruben Impens (known for "Titane")

  • Editing: Clémence Diard

  • Music: Yan Wagner

  • Production Design: Eve Martin

  • Producers: Julie Billy, Naomi Denamur (for June Films), Cassandre Warnauts, Jean-Yves Roubin (for Frakas Productions)

  • Executive Producers: Emma Benestan (among others)

  • Production Companies: June Films (France), Frakas Productions (Belgium), France 3 Cinéma (France)

  • Filming Dates: Not explicitly stated, but completed prior to its May 2024 premiere.

  • World Premiere: Cannes Film Festival, Critics' Week (Closing Film), May 22, 2024.

Production Companies: Collaborative European and Middle Eastern Effort

  • June Films (France)

  • Frakas Productions (Belgium)

  • France 3 Cinéma (France)

  • Saudi Arabian involvement is noted in credits, suggesting a co-production partner there.

Sales & Distribution: International Festival Circuit and Theatrical Release

  • International Sales: Film Constellation

  • French Distributor: Wild Bunch Distribution (confirmed for French theatrical release)

  • Release Dates:

    • May 22, 2024: World Premiere (Cannes Film Festival, Critics' Week)

    • September 20, 2024: North American Premiere (Fantastic Fest)

    • November 27, 2024: French Theatrical Release

    • Ongoing festival screenings (e.g., Brooklyn Horror Film Festival 2024)

Release Timeline: From Cannes Debut to Broader Theatrical Rollout

  • May 22, 2024: World Premiere at Cannes Film Festival (Critics' Week, closing film).

  • September 20, 2024: North American premiere at Fantastic Fest.

  • November 27, 2024: French theatrical release.

  • Ongoing: Expected to continue festival circuit and pursue international theatrical or digital releases in 2025.

Why See It: For a Powerful and Visually Striking Feminist Thriller

  • If you appreciate genre-bending films: It offers a unique mix of drama, thriller, and subtle body horror.

  • For a strong female protagonist: Nejma's journey is compelling and empowering.

  • If you enjoy visually rich cinema: The Camargue setting and cinematography are stunning.

  • To experience a fresh take on social commentary: It uses genre to explore gender, power, and identity.

  • For a nuanced and ambitious directorial vision: Emma Benestan proves herself a talent to watch.

Why Watch: If You Seek Intelligent and Evocative Cinema

  • If you want a film that challenges gender norms: It directly confronts toxic masculinity in a unique setting.

  • To see a blend of arthouse sensibility with genre thrills: It's both thought-provoking and engaging.

  • If you are drawn to stories of transformation and self-discovery: Nejma's journey is both literal and metaphorical.

  • For a film that uses atmosphere and symbolism effectively: It creates a palpable sense of dread and tension.

  • If you support international co-productions and diverse cinematic voices: It offers a compelling story from a French-Algerian director.

Movie Trend: The Elevated Genre Film & Folk Horror with Social Undercurrents

"Animale" (2024) strongly aligns with the burgeoning movie trend of the Elevated Genre Film, particularly within the horror and thriller spaces. This trend sees filmmakers utilizing genre conventions not just for scares or thrills, but as a vehicle for profound social, psychological, or artistic commentary. "Animale" specifically taps into the sub-trend of Folk Horror with Social Undercurrents, where a sense of primal dread, mysterious transformations, and ancient landscapes (like the Camargue) are interwoven with modern anxieties, in this case, focusing on gender dynamics and toxic masculinity. The film uses its genre elements metaphorically to explore deeper societal issues, offering a more intellectual and emotionally resonant experience than traditional genre fare.

Social Trend: Confronting Toxic Masculinity and Female Empowerment in Male-Dominated Spaces

"Animale" (2024) directly engages with the contemporary social trend of Confronting Toxic Masculinity and Highlighting Female Empowerment in Male-Dominated Spaces. As society increasingly scrutinizes patriarchal structures and demands equality, films like "Animale" provide a powerful cinematic reflection of these ongoing struggles. By placing a determined young woman, Nejma, within the hyper-masculine world of bull-running, the film vividly portrays the casual sexism, subtle aggressions, and inherent dangers women face when challenging traditional gender roles. Nejma's journey, including her physical and psychological transformation, serves as a potent metaphor for female resilience, rage, and the often-primal fight required for self-assertion and safety in environments historically controlled by men.

Final Verdict: A Fierce and Haunting Roar Against Convention

"Animale" (2024), Emma Benestan's fiercely compelling French, Belgian, and Saudi Arabian co-production, stands as a visceral and thought-provoking cinematic achievement. Premiering as the closing film of Critics' Week at Cannes 2024 and set for a French theatrical release on November 27, 2024, the film masterfully intertwines elements of drama, thriller, and subtle horror within the unique, hyper-masculine world of Camargue bull-running. At its heart is Nejma, portrayed with captivating intensity by Oulaya Amamra, a young woman fighting to assert her identity and ambition in a hostile environment, only to confront a disturbing personal metamorphosis alongside a series of brutal murders. Benestan's bold direction, coupled with stunning cinematography, expertly crafts a narrative that is both an incisive critique of toxic masculinity and a primal exploration of female rage and resilience. "Animale" is a courageous and artful film that defies simple categorization, leaving a lasting impression with its unsettling beauty and its powerful, metaphorical commentary on power, gender, and the wildness within.

Recommendations for filmmakers: Unleashing the Power of Genre and Social Commentary

  • Integrate Social Commentary Deeply Within Genre Frameworks: "Animale" brilliantly uses thriller and horror elements to explore profound themes of gender inequality and toxic masculinity. Filmmakers should consider how genre conventions can serve as powerful vehicles for social critique, allowing complex messages to resonate with a broader audience while maintaining an engaging narrative. By embedding social issues directly into the plot and character arcs, rather than presenting them as separate lectures, films can achieve a more visceral and impactful form of commentary that entertains as it enlightens.

  • Craft Nuanced Protagonists Who Defy Easy Categorization: Nejma is a complex character—strong, ambitious, vulnerable, and ultimately, terrifying in her transformation. Directors should strive to create protagonists who are multi-dimensional, evolving beyond simple heroic or victim archetypes, especially when exploring challenging social landscapes. Allowing characters to embody both strengths and unsettling qualities, and to undergo significant internal and external changes, makes their journeys more compelling and believable, resonating deeply with an audience that recognizes the complexities of human experience.

  • Leverage Unique Cultural Settings and Traditions for Thematic Depth: The Camargue region and its specific bull-running tradition are central to "Animale," providing a rich backdrop that amplifies the film's themes of masculinity, control, and wildness. Filmmakers should explore how distinct cultural settings, local traditions, or specific communities can provide unique visual and thematic textures that enrich their stories, allowing the environment itself to become a character that informs the narrative. An authentic and deeply integrated setting not only enhances the film's originality but also provides a powerful context for universal themes to unfold, making the story feel both specific and universally relatable.

Recommendations for Movie Industry: Championing Bold Visions and Diverse Storytelling

  • Invest in and Nurture Distinctive Voices That Blend Arthouse and Genre: "Animale" showcases Emma Benestan as a director capable of crafting a film that satisfies both arthouse sensibilities and genre thrills. The movie industry should actively seek out and support filmmakers who demonstrate the ability to innovate within and across genres, as these unique visions often lead to critically acclaimed and commercially engaging cinema that expands audience horizons. Supporting such daring voices fosters artistic growth, brings fresh perspectives to the screen, and diversifies the cinematic landscape, proving that creative ambition and audience appeal can go hand in hand.

  • Prioritize International Co-Productions for Unique Narratives and Global Reach: The French, Belgian, and Saudi Arabian co-production of "Animale" allowed for a rich blend of resources, talent, and perspectives. The industry should continue to facilitate and invest in international co-productions, recognizing their potential to produce culturally rich, original narratives that can resonate with global audiences and foster cross-cultural understanding. These collaborations not only pool financial resources but also lead to a richer tapestry of stories, pushing creative boundaries and ensuring that diverse cinematic voices can reach worldwide distribution.

  • Utilize Festival Exposure as a Strategic Launchpad for Thematic Films: "Animale"'s premiere as the closing film of Critics' Week at Cannes provided significant critical validation and market buzz. The industry should continue to strategically leverage prestigious film festivals as crucial platforms for launching independent and thematic films, understanding that festival acclaim can be pivotal for securing distribution and building momentum ahead of broader releases. Festival success elevates a film's profile, attracts critical attention, and generates crucial word-of-mouth, which is essential for films that aim to spark conversation and challenge audiences beyond mainstream blockbusters.

Final Conclusions: A Primal and Potent Examination of Power and Identity

"Animale" (2024), Emma Benestan's striking and emotionally charged feature, stands as a testament to the power of cinema to confront societal norms and explore the depths of human experience. Premiering to significant acclaim at Cannes in May 2024, the film plunges viewers into the raw, male-dominated world of Camargue bull-running, where Nejma, a fierce and determined young woman, battles not only for supremacy in the arena but for her very sense of self amidst a terrifying wave of violence and a disturbing personal metamorphosis. Benestan's assured direction, coupled with Oulaya Amamra's mesmerizing performance, creates a narrative that is both a thrilling genre piece and a profound commentary on gender roles, toxic masculinity, and the primal instincts that lie beneath the surface of civilization. "Animale" is a bold, visually stunning, and intellectually stimulating film that defies easy categorization, leaving a lasting impression with its unsettling beauty and its powerful exploration of what it means to be wild, human, and truly free.


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