Cezanne et moi

Cezanne et moi is a French biographical drama film directed by Danièle Thompson, starring Guillaume Canet, Guillaume Gallienne, and Alice Pol. Released in 2016, the movie explores the lifelong friendship between two of the most renowned artists in French history - painter Paul Cezanne and writer Ãmile Zola.

The film follows the childhood friendship of the two great artists, who grew up in Aix-en-Provence, a small town in Southern France. Despite the contrasting personalities, Cézanne, played by Guillaume Gallienne, a headstrong and brooding painter, and Zola, played by Guillaume Canet, an ambitious and driven writer, become inseparable friends.

As they grow up and go their separate ways, each man finds success in his own field. The confident and ambitious Zola quickly rises to fame in literary circles in Paris, while the shy and self-doubting Cézanne struggles to establish himself as a respected painter.

The film jumps back and forth between two timelines - the early days of their friendship in Aix-en-Provence and their later years when they were both successful artists. Throughout the film, we see how their lives unfold, their intimate conversations, their differing views on art and life, and the ups and downs of their personal relationships.

One of the key themes of the film is the tension between the two artists. While they share a deep respect for each other's work, their differing outlooks and personalities create friction between them. Zola believes that art should serve a societal purpose and that painters should depict the real world, while Cézanne eschews this narrative in favor of his own more abstract vision.

Their differing artistic approaches become more pronounced as each man gains success in his own field, and their arguments become more heated. Throughout it all, however, their friendship remains steadfast, even as they grow old and face personal and professional setbacks.

Another key aspect of the film is the portrayal of the art world of 19th-century France. Thompson beautifully captures the bohemian lifestyle of artists in Paris, with scenes set in the Louvre, in cafes, and at art exhibitions. The film provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges that artists at that time faced in gaining recognition for their work and the personal struggles that they encountered.

Throughout the movie, the cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the French countryside and its beautiful landscapes. The film score is also exceptional, with its classical themes blending seamlessly with the film's narrative.

In terms of acting, both Guillaume Canet and Guillaume Gallienne deliver powerful and nuanced performances, bringing to life the complex relationship between two creative geniuses. Alice Pol, who plays Cézanne's wife, also delivers a stellar performance, displaying a deep understanding of her character's motivations and her role in the lives of the two men.

Overall, Cezanne et moi is a beautifully crafted film that explores the complexity of friendship and the enduring power of art. It offers a fascinating insight into the lives of two of France's most famous artists and their struggles to maintain their friendship despite their differing worldviews and approaches. The film is a must-watch for lovers of art, history, and French cinema.