PREVIEW: Renoir

Fans of French cinema will not be disappointed by Gilles Bourdos’ new film Renoir, a WW1 period drama which recounts the story of the eponymous artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir (Michel Bouquet), his film-maker son Jean (Vincent Rottiers), and the woman that connects the two, Andree (Christa Theret).

The film, which was beautifully shot by Taiwanese cinematographer Mark Lee Ping Bin, was premiered at the 2012 Cannes film festival, and since then, it has gone on to achieve modest international success.  Besides the gorgeous setting, Bouquet gives a stellar performance as the aging impressionist – arguably one of his best performances in the 90 films he has made over a 66 year career.

Despite the achingly slow pace, the film is touching and beautiful – and has catapulted Gilles Bourdos in the limelight, and secured Bouquet as a true French legend. The film has already made millions at the French and American box office, and with its UK release, it is due to make far more.

*Renoir’s celebration of the flesh is beautiful to behold* The Guardian

*The sun-dappled cinematography by Taiwanese Mark Ping Bin Lee (Norwegian Wood) would have you drooling for a French holiday had the weather not turned so hot here* Birmingham Mail

Watch the trailer here

Showing on the following dates: Monday 5th at 7.45pm, Tuesday 6th at 7.45pm, Wednesday 7th at 2pm, Wednesday 7th at 7.45pm, Thursday 8th at 10.45am [CineCubs Screening], Thursday 8th at 7.45pm