MY KING (MON ROI)


Showcased earlier this year in the Rendez-Vous with French Cinema series, “My King” ("Mon Roi), directed by Maïwenn and now in release, follows the up and down relationship between Tony (Emmanuelle Bercot) and Georgio (Vincent Cassel).

Georgio is a flamboyant, controlling type who makes being involved with him hell. Such an ongoing battle of anger and reconciliation can get on the nerves of an audience. Yes, the acting is fine, as is that of Louis Garrel as Solal, Tony’s brother. But a little of “My King” goes a long way.

The story, scripted by the director and Étienne Comar, unspools in flashbacks after Tony is injured in a ski accident. Her physical injury isn’t the only thing she needs to recover from. Worse, is the relationship she has with Georgio.

In a sense, the film is a cautionary tale for women who are smitten with certain types of men with sexual flash and flamboyant personalities. On the one hand they are seductive, but on the other hand they can be impossible and very bad news.

“My King,” with its excellent acting, nails the dynamics of the intimate relationship perfectly. But a viewer can have a broader perspective. Thus one sees the horror of involvement with Georgio, who can become a real pain in the butt to watch, Cassel’s persuasive acting only deepening the disaffection.

As for the wonderful Bercot, one may feel like shouting to her, “Get rid of the creep for good.” To be sure, all of this is attractively packaged, which makes the film easy on the eyes if not on a level of tolerance. A Film Movement release. Reviewed August 12, 2016.




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