New Movies: The Mohican (2024) by Frédéric Farrucci: A Modern Corsican Western

Core Summary: A Shepherd's Fight for His Land and Freedom The Mohican (2024), directed by Corsican filmmaker Frédéric Farrucci, is a tightly-wound crime thriller and modern western set in Corsica. It charts the transformation of Joseph (Alexis Manenti), one of the last coastal shepherds, into a symbol of resistance. His land is coveted by the underworld for a real estate project, but he refuses to give in. When an act of self-defense leaves the godfather's son between life and death, Joseph becomes the prey of a merciless hunt, forcing him to fight for his land, his way of life, and his very existence against powerful, corrupt forces. The film uses a political lens to address the societal rifts on the "Isle of Beauty."

Summary Short: Corsican Shepherd Becomes Fugitive Against Mafia A Corsican shepherd fights to protect his land from the underworld, inadvertently becoming a hunted man and a symbol of anti-capitalist resistance after a violent confrontation with a mobster's son.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt33030107/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/466218/

About movie: https://www.advitamdistribution.com/films/le-mohican/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/fr/film/le-mohican (France)

Detailed Summary: A Battle for Survival and Heritage in Corsica The Mohican (French title: Le Mohican) (2024) is a French drama, crime, and thriller film directed by Frédéric Farrucci. It is Farrucci's second feature film, following La Nuit venue (2020).

• The Protagonist and His Land: The story centers on Joseph (Alexis Manenti), depicted as one of the last coastal shepherds in Corsica, representing a vanishing way of life and a deep connection to the land.

• Conflict with the Underworld: Joseph's land becomes the target of powerful criminal organizations (referred to as the "underworld" or "mafia") who covet it for a lucrative real estate development project. Joseph staunchly refuses to sell or give in to their intimidation.

• A Violent Incident: The conflict escalates when Joseph is confronted by the godfather's own son, sent to intimidate him. In an act of self-defense, Joseph leaves the man "between life and death."

• The Relentless Hunt: This incident marks Joseph as a target, turning him into the "prey of a merciless hunt" carried out by the ruthless gangsters. He is forced to go on the run, fighting for his life and freedom.

• Transformation into a Hero: As days go by, Joseph's resistance against the seemingly impossible odds transforms him into a legend, a symbol of anti-capitalist and anti-mafia resistance on the French island. He embodies the fight for a traditional way of life against the encroachment of corruption and unchecked development.

• Political and Societal Undercurrents: The film uses this personal struggle to powerfully address the "societal rifts" on Corsica, exploring themes of freedom, community, and the clash between tradition and modern corruption.

• Western Inspirations: The film is noted for its "modern western" feel and is shot in cinemascope, a format often associated with classic westerns, further emphasizing its thematic leanings.

Plot Summary

• Joseph's Life: Joseph lives a traditional life as one of the last coastal shepherds in Corsica, deeply connected to his ancestral land.

• Land Disputes: His land becomes highly desirable to a criminal organization involved in a large-scale real estate development. Joseph steadfastly refuses their offers and threats.

• A Fatal Confrontation: An envoy, revealed to be the son of the mob godfather, is sent to pressure Joseph. A violent encounter ensues, and Joseph leaves the mobster's son severely injured, hovering between life and death.

• On the Run: This act turns Joseph into a primary target for the ruthless mob. He is forced to abandon his home and go on the run, becoming the subject of an intense manhunt across the island.

• Rising Legend: As Joseph evades his pursuers, his story spreads, and he becomes an unexpected folk hero – a symbol of defiance against the powerful and corrupt forces attempting to usurp the island's traditional values and land.

• The Fight for Corsica: The narrative evolves beyond Joseph's personal survival to represent a broader struggle for Corsica's identity and future, highlighting the deep-seated conflicts between tradition and unchecked capitalism, and a community striving for freedom.

• Climax of Resistance: The film culminates in Joseph's continued fight, embodying the spirit of the "Mohican" – the last of his kind, fiercely defending his heritage and resisting assimilation.

Director's Vision Frédéric Farrucci's vision for The Mohican is to craft a modern western set in his native Corsica, using the genre as a powerful vehicle to explore profound societal and political issues affecting the island.

• Corsica as a Western Landscape: Farrucci explicitly states, "I've always seen Corsica as a land of the Western." He leverages the rugged Corsican landscape and its inherent conflicts to evoke the classic themes of the Western genre: individual freedom, the fight for land, justice, and resistance against encroaching powers.

• Genre as a "Trojan Horse": He views the Western genre as a "Trojan horse" for telling a contemporary story at a "cracking pace," allowing him to address complex societal issues, specifically the "societal rifts on the Isle of Beauty" concerning anti-capitalist and anti-mafia resistance.

• Tightly-Wound Thriller: The film is designed as a "tightly-wound" narrative, suggesting a focus on suspense and tension as Joseph navigates the relentless hunt.

• Transformation of a Character: Farrucci aims to chart the "transformation of a goatherd into a hero," emphasizing Joseph's evolution from an ordinary individual to a symbol of collective struggle.

• Political and Social Commentary: Beyond the thrilling plot, the director intends for the film to serve as a powerful commentary on the pressures of real estate speculation, corruption, and the fight to preserve traditional ways of life against destructive forces.

• Visual Aesthetics: The choice of shooting in cinemascope (cinematography by Jeanne Lapoirie) is deliberate, linking the film visually to the grand scale and iconic imagery of traditional Westerns.

• Focus on Humanity: Despite the intense plot, Farrucci's vision also aims to look at "the human at large," suggesting an empathetic portrayal of the characters caught in this struggle.

Themes

• Resistance and Rebellion: The central theme is the individual's and community's resistance against powerful, corrupt forces, specifically organized crime and unchecked capitalist development. Joseph becomes a symbol of this "resistance deemed impossible."

• Land and Identity: The deep connection between the Corsican land and the identity of its people. Joseph's fight is not just for his property but for his heritage and way of life.

• Justice and Vengeance: The film explores the blurred lines between personal vengeance and the pursuit of justice in a context where formal legal systems may be compromised by corruption.

• Freedom and Oppression: The struggle for personal and collective freedom against oppressive forces that seek to control land, resources, and destinies.

• The Modern Western: Adapting classic Western tropes (the lone figure fighting for his land, the relentless pursuit, the clear lines between good and evil, albeit with modern complexities) to a contemporary European setting.

• Community and Isolation: Joseph's initial isolation as "one of the last" shepherds contrasts with the growing solidarity and legend that forms around his resistance.

• Corruption and Capitalism: A critical look at how unchecked real estate speculation and organized crime can exploit and destroy traditional communities and natural landscapes.

Key Success Factors

• Strong Protagonist: Alexis Manenti's portrayal of Joseph as a compelling and relatable "modern western" hero is crucial.

• Frédéric Farrucci's Direction: His ability to blend genre elements (thriller, western) with profound social commentary and maintain a tight narrative pace.

• Unique Setting: The rugged and beautiful landscape of Corsica, utilized effectively, adds significant atmosphere and depth to the story.

• Relevant Social Commentary: The film's engagement with real-world issues like mafia influence, property speculation, and local resistance makes it timely and resonant.

• Festival Acclaim: Its premiere at the Venice Film Festival (Orizzonti Extra section) and selection at other international festivals (Istanbul, Stockholm, Sydney) provides critical visibility and buzz.

• Cinematography: Jeanne Lapoirie's work in cinemascope contributes to the film's aesthetic and genre homage.

Summary Short: Venice Premiere, International Buzz, February 2025 France Release The Mohican (2024) premiered at the 81st Venice Film Festival in September 2024 (Orizzonti Extra section) where it received a Special Mention. It has since been selected for various international film festivals including Istanbul, Stockholm, and Sydney. The film is a French production, distributed by Ad Vitam in France and No.Mad Entertainment in Italy. Its French theatrical release is set for February 12, 2025, and Italian release on May 8, 2025. Critical reception generally praises its modern western approach and Alexis Manenti's performance.

Awards and Nominations The Mohican has received early recognition at prestigious film festivals:

• 81st Venice Film Festival (2024):

  • Special Mention: Premio Fondazione Fai Persona Lavoro Ambiente.

• Istanbul Film Festival (2025): Official Selection.

• Stockholm International Film Festival (2024): Official Selection.

• Sydney Film Festival (2025): Official Selection.

• Armani Beauty Audience Award (2024): Awarded to Frédéric Farrucci.

Critical Reception and Reviews The Mohican has received positive early critical reception, particularly following its Venice premiere.

• Modern Western Appeal: Screen Daily praised it as a "tightly-wound second feature" that "charts the transformation of a goatherd into a hero" and noted its "modern western" feel. Irish Film Critic highlighted how it "Carries On The Themes Of Classic Westerns While Showcasing A Meaningful Approach To Freedom And Community."

• Strong Direction: Frédéric Farrucci is commended for his ability to deliver a "thrilling" film at a "cracking pace." His interview in Cineuropa reveals his intentional use of the Western genre as a "Trojan horse" for his themes.

• Alexis Manenti's Performance: The lead actor, Alexis Manenti, has been "brilliantly played" and is highlighted for his compelling portrayal.

• Political Lens: Critics appreciate the film's "political lens" in addressing "the societal rifts on the Isle of Beauty."

• Atmospheric and Intense: The film is described as intense and capable of immersing the viewer in the Corsican setting and the protagonist's perilous journey.

Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Critics generally laud The Mohican as a compelling and well-executed modern Western. Its strength lies in Frédéric Farrucci's tight direction, Alexis Manenti's strong performance, and its effective use of genre to deliver sharp social and political commentary relevant to Corsica.

Reviews As The Mohican has primarily been on the festival circuit and is set for theatrical release in 2025, detailed audience reviews are not yet widespread. However, early critic reviews provide insight into its reception:

• "Gripping" and "Devastating": Early word suggests the film is a "gripping, devastating" experience.

• Visually Striking: The cinematography is likely to be a highlight, given the Corsican setting and the cinemascope format. Alexis Manenti himself noted that it was "marvelous to shoot in natural scenery and see all these landscapes."

• Character Depth: The film delves into the human struggle, with Alexis Manenti discussing the appeal of the "character" and the "relation with the director."

• Intense Pace: It is described as having a "cracking pace," suggesting it will maintain audience engagement through its thriller elements.

Overall Summary of Reviews: Early reviews indicate The Mohican is a highly engaging and visually impressive film that successfully blends genre thrills with a deeper, socially conscious narrative. Its strong performances and Frédéric Farrucci's distinct vision appear to be key highlights, promising a memorable cinematic experience.

Box Office The Mohican (2024) had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024. Its theatrical release in France is scheduled for February 12, 2025, and in Italy for May 8, 2025.

• Initial French Box Office: In its opening week (Feb 12-16, 2025), the film grossed $316,680 from 104 theaters, ranking 13th. By its second weekend (Feb 19-23, 2025), it had reached a total gross of $527,786 in France across 115 theaters.

• As an independent French film, these figures represent a solid start, and its overall box office performance will depend on continued audience reception and its release in other territories.

Production Summary The Mohican (French title: Le Mohican) is an 87-minute French fiction film produced in 2024. It is directed by Frédéric Farrucci, who also wrote the screenplay. The film is produced by Diane Jassem and Céline Chapdaniel for Koro Films, Atelier de Production, Novoprod, and Les Films Velvet. The cinematography is by Jeanne Lapoirie, editing by Mathilde Van de Moortel and Carole Lepage, and music by Rone. The main cast includes Alexis Manenti (Joseph) and Mara Taquin. Principal photography was completed by July 23, 2024.

Production Companies

• Koro Films

• Atelier de Production

• Novoprod

• Les Films Velvet

Sales Companies

• Be for Films (international sales)

Distribution Companies

• Ad Vitam (France)

• No.Mad Entertainment (Italy)

• Mubi (listed on their platform, suggesting eventual streaming distribution)

• Koro Films (also listed as a distributor)

Release Date on Streaming The Mohican is not currently available for streaming. Its theatrical release in France is set for February 12, 2025, and in Italy for May 8, 2025. Streaming availability would typically follow after its theatrical window and festival run. JustWatch indicates it is not yet available, but will notify users when it is. Mubi has listed the film, suggesting it will eventually be available on their platform.

Theatrical Release The Mohican had its World Premiere at the 81st Venice Film Festival (Orizzonti Extra section) on September 1, 2024. The film's theatrical release dates include:

• France: February 12, 2025

• Italy: May 8, 2025

Why to Recommend This Film

• Unique Modern Western: It offers a fresh take on the Western genre by setting it in contemporary Corsica, blending thrilling action with deep social commentary.

• Compelling Protagonist: Joseph's transformation from a simple shepherd to a symbol of resistance is a powerful narrative arc.

• Stunning Cinematography: The film beautifully captures the Corsican landscape, enhancing the immersive experience.

• Relevant Social Issues: It tackles important themes like land rights, corruption, and the fight against organized crime in a compelling way.

• Award Recognition: Its selection and special mention at Venice and other festivals highlight its artistic merit.

Why to Watch This Film

• Love Crime Thrillers/Westerns: If you enjoy tightly-paced narratives with elements of pursuit, resistance, and moral dilemmas.

• Interested in Corsican Culture: To gain insight into contemporary Corsica and its unique challenges.

• Appreciate Strong Character Journeys: To witness a protagonist's compelling evolution in the face of adversity.

• Seek Socially Conscious Cinema: If you prefer films that use genre to address real-world issues.

• Enjoy Visually Rich Films: The cinematography promises to be a major highlight, utilizing the scenic backdrop effectively.

Movie Trend The Mohican (2024) fits into the growing trend of "Regional Neo-Westerns," where filmmakers adapt the classic Western genre's tropes of land, justice, and individual struggle to contemporary, often localized, settings outside of the American West. It also aligns with "Socially Conscious Thrillers," using the framework of a crime or thriller narrative to explore deeper societal issues like corruption, gentrification, and local resistance. The film's strong festival presence reinforces the trend of "Auteur-Driven European Cinema" gaining international recognition.

Social Trend The film connects with the social trend of "Local Resistance Against Globalizing Forces," where communities fight to preserve their identity, land, and traditional ways of life against external pressures, such as real estate speculation and organized crime. It also touches on the increasing public awareness of "Environmental Protection and Land Rights," as Joseph's personal battle symbolizes a broader fight for ecological and cultural heritage. The portrayal of a lone individual standing up against powerful, corrupt systems resonates with a societal desire for "Grassroots Activism and Anti-Corruption Movements."

Final Verdict The Mohican (2024) by Frédéric Farrucci is a gripping and visually stunning modern Western that powerfully portrays one man's fight for his land and his very soul in contemporary Corsica. With its tight direction, compelling lead performance by Alexis Manenti, and sharp social commentary, the film successfully transcends its genre to deliver a resonant and timely story of resistance against overwhelming odds. Its strong festival reception and unique blend of thrills and thematic depth make it a highly recommended watch.

Recommendations for Filmmakers

• Reinvent Genres: Learn from Farrucci's effective use of the Western genre as a "Trojan horse" to tell a deeply rooted, contemporary story.

• Utilize Specific Locations: Allow the unique cultural and geographical characteristics of your setting to inform and enrich your narrative and visual style.

• Balance Action and Theme: Master the art of crafting a thrilling plot that simultaneously delivers strong social or political commentary without feeling didactic.

• Invest in Strong Lead Performances: A compelling central character can elevate a genre film into something more profound and memorable.

• Seek Festival Exposure: Premiering at major festivals can provide invaluable buzz and distribution opportunities for independent films.

Recommendations for the Movie Industry

• Support Regional Cinema: Continue to invest in films that explore specific regional cultures and issues, as they often offer fresh perspectives and rich storytelling.

• Embrace Genre Hybridization: Recognize the potential of films that blend popular genres with deeper thematic concerns, appealing to both arthouse and mainstream audiences.

• Promote Socially Relevant Thrillers: Highlight films that use compelling narratives to shed light on important societal challenges, fostering both entertainment and awareness.

• Value Auteurial Visions: Continue to champion directors with distinct artistic voices who can elevate their projects beyond commercial trends.

• Diversify Distribution Channels: Ensure that independent films with strong festival performance receive adequate theatrical and streaming distribution to reach wider audiences.

Final Conclusions The Mohican (2024) is a testament to the power of cinema to reflect and comment on real-world struggles through compelling storytelling. Frédéric Farrucci delivers a powerful and visually arresting film that redefines the Western for a modern Corsican context. It's a gripping tale of defiance, beautifully shot and intensely acted, that will resonate with audiences interested in human resilience and the fight for freedom and heritage in a changing world.