Animale

Set in the Camargue region of Southern France, Animale, the second feature film from writer-director Emma Benestan, follows Nejama (Oulaya Amamra) as she trains to become a runner in the area’s traditional bull race. Being the only woman competing, she feels that she must earn the approval and respect of the male competitors who constantly look down on her. But after a drunken night out with her colleagues, events take an unexpected turn when the men are found dead. While it’s assumed they’ve been killed by a rogue bull, there may be something more supernatural and sinister at play in this film, which defies genre expectations.

There’s a distinctive Western flavour to Benestan’s sophomore feature that oozes through the dusty fields and evocative soundtrack which establishes tone during the opening scene. Then Animale becomes an underdog tale as Nejama trains vigorously for the upcoming competition. And just when viewers think they’ve got a handle on what to expect, they find themselves watching a creature feature with a feminist edge. This combination of genres makes for an alluring mix of ideas that take the plot in compelling directions. While the horror aspects are never especially frightening, there’s nevertheless an enjoyable campness that comes with seeing shots of the bulls standing menacingly in the mist or some outrageous special effects that are put on full display during the final act.

Tying this assortment of ideas together is Amamra’s strong performance in the lead role. No matter how surreal events become, the actor brings a raw tenderness to the table that enables viewers to sympathise with her plight and stay invested in the ensuing insanity. Underneath it all are the feminist undertones that Benestan weaves throughout her script, which range from the everyday sexism the protagonist faces to a heavier subject matter that’s revealed in a final twist. Though viewers may have an idea where the plot is heading before it’s revealed, the subsequent imagery makes for a fitting and provocative metaphor.

Although the horror parts of this movie aren’t particularly effective, the bold mix of genres in Animale combined with Amamra’s central performance makes Benestan’s film an engrossing watch.

Andrew Murray

Animale does not have a UK release date yet.

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