Kardec

Kardec is a captivating biographical drama that was released in 2019 by the Brazilian director Wagner de Assis. It beautifully showcases the life and works of Allan Kardec, the founder of Spiritism - a controversial 19th-century philosophical and religious movement that shook the world. The film adeptly mixes history with spirituality, enticing viewers with its beautiful cinematography, strong performances and intriguing script.

At the center of the narrative is the French educator Hippolyte Léon Denizard Rivail, portrayed by Leonardo Medeiros, who would later adopt the name Allan Kardec. Rivail was a respected man of science and education, who adopted a pseudonym when his life took an intriguing turn into spiritual pursuits. In the film, Medeiros captures the essence of Kardec's character effectively, evoking his intellect, curiosity, and deep integrity while facing adversity and skepticism.

Sandra Corveloni plays Amélie-Gabrielle Boudet, Kardec's devoted wife, in a performance underscored by strength and grace. The film highlights the central role she played in Kardec's life - not just as a supporting spouse, but a co-contributor in his spiritual studies. The deep understanding and mutual respect between these characters are palpable and heartfelt.

Christian Baltauss portrays Charles Baudin, a significant figure in the early history of spiritism and a key confidant of Kardec. The film showcases the complexities of these foundational figures in the spiritism movement, alongside their struggles of grappling with unexplained phenomena and societal constraints.

Set in 1850’s Paris, Kardec opens with clear lines drawn between the church, the science community, and the regular populace. The film portrays an era when life was led by a blend of both strict religious mandates and the enlightening dawn of scientific discovery. As a man of education and science, Rivail (Kardec) finds himself caught in the crossroads of these contrasting worlds, setting the stage for his serendipitous embarkment into the world of mediumship and spirits.

A critical component of the film is the séances that were a cultural phenomenon during the Victorian era. The director, Wagner de Assis, was especially skilful in recreating these eerie encounters with the spirit world. These scenes, critical to showcasing Kardec's fascination and consequent exploration into spiritism, are meticulously portrayed, neither underselling their controversial nature nor sensationalizing them.

The production design deserves a mention for beautifully capturing the Paris of the mid-19th century, from the magnificence of the city’s landmarks to the intimate interiors of bourgeois homes, each exudes an authentic aura of times long past. The film's period elements elevate it, making it a rich visual feast to watch. Combining this with Illan Eshkeri's compelling score, the film evokes an atmosphere of mystery, tension, intrigue, and emotion accurately befitting the narrative.

The film strives to humanize and contextualize Kardec, showing him not as a traditional religious figure, but as a man of rigorous scientific inquiry whose explorations led him to understandings beyond the accepted norms of the time. It provides a nuanced portrayal of Kardec as someone who didn't reject religion but sought to reconcile faith with reason.

What sets 'Kardec' apart is its commitment to presenting a balanced depiction of a controversial figure and his teachings without seeking to sway the viewer's opinion. While spiritists will find this cinematic tribute illuminating and rewarding, non-believers and skeptics aren't alienated either. The film encourages questioning, exploration, and appreciates the mystery and vastness of the world we live in - much like Kardec himself did.

'Kardec' is not just a biographical tale, but a novel exploration into matters of faith, science, the known, and unknown. The film does not attempt to preach or push any dogma but presents a journey of discovery and contemplation. It’s exactly this unbiased narrative that makes the film universally appealing, regardless of individual spiritual beliefs or philosophies.

The performances, storyline, and aesthetic make it a remarkable piece of cinema, worth viewing for its historical value, exploration of faith and science, and a thought-provoking angle at life’s greatest existential questions. Whether you seek to understand the history of Spiritism or interested in a compelling narrative of first-rate people navigating through a controversial path, 'Kardec' is worth your time and attention.