It's a delicate diamond work. It might seem slow, but it all is real. You observe people with mental disabilities in one of the neighborhoods in Paris, France. You're there and with them.
This movie gives viewers the feeling of being in that place. You teleport yourself to the same room where you stand alongside the clients of the Adamant. Participating in the same group meeting, drawing together the same pictures, speaking about the people you met yesterday, etc. You are there with everybody and immersed in the life of the boat and its dwellers.
The presentation of people with mental disabilities sometimes tricks us into some cliches such as craziness, uncontrol, weirdness, etc. Here we have an advantage in seeing the truth of this universe. It's a special communication between the crew and the characters; it's a special attitude of all actors involved; and it's the innocence of people who want to be included and the openness of people who sincerely want to guide them.
Every person is involved in the conversation, even the viewers. We participate indirectly. You can feel the vibe and you listen to the heart of the Adamant.
Overall, I understand why the jury in Berlin stands with this movie as the 2023 winner. It is a diamond work that accompanies you as an observer of the reality of people with mental disabilities and how others try to help them in one particular place in the big world of Paris. At the same time, the breathtaking artistry of cinematography and narrative lines built on the flow gives you quite real goosebumps. I'm there and with them, and it's all beautiful.
Highly recommended to watch!
