Film “Annette” by Leo Carax: An artist’s trip to hell

Conventional films? Non merci, this is not for Leo Carax, who started furiously with “The Lovers of Pont Neuf” in 1991. The French love irritation and the unpredictable. He delivers all of this in this dark musical about love, hate, passion and madness.

There’s a spark between the successful stand-up comedian Henry (Adam Driver) and the celebrated opera singer Ann (Marion Cotillard). The glamorous couple roars through the streets of Los Angeles and sings catchy “We love each other so much” in the togetherness of their beach house. Her great love is crowned by the birth of a strange child, Annette, who looks like a wooden doll.

While Ann conquers the stages of the world, the jealous Henry tends the baby and drinks. In his few appearances, his cynical gags and the public abuse no longer arrive. The “amour fou” ends in a catastrophe.

The art-pop pioneers Sparks and the brothers Ron and Russel Mael provided lyrics and rousing music. Almost all dialogues are sung. The tragedy fascinates with crackling sensuality, wonderful kitsch and overwhelming feelings, but does not make it easy for the viewer.

Carax explores an artist’s vanities and fear of failure. He suggests that there is something of himself in the angry figure of Henry. The balancing act between distorting grotesque and beguiling beauty provokes. An uncomfortable trip to hell that you should get involved in – even if it hurts.

„Annette“, Directed by Leo Carax, with Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard, 140 minutes, FSK 12

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