Partisan – Review

Though the opening image to Ariel Kleiman’s Partisan, of Vincent Cassel laboriously trudging along with a utility pole over his arched back, may resemble that of Jesus Christ, that’s not to say there is anything saintly about this vindictive protagonist, as the filmmaker’s debut feature offers a candid, unforgiving study of a man who creates a cult and becomes obsessed with his newfound sense of power.

Cassel plays Gregori, who uncovers a barren, discarded wasteland and proceeds to use this area to build a commune, where he seeks in manipulating and persuading abandoned, single mothers to come and join him. Preying on the vulnerable – approaching his targets at hospitals soon after they’ve given birth – it all begins with Susanna (Florence Mezzara), who accepts his offer of a place to stay, along with her son, Alexander. Fast forward a decade, and the young boy (portrayed by Jeremy Chabriel) is the eldest of an ever-growing collective of members, and is the first to feel curious as to what the outside world can offer. What transpires is a locking of horns between the adolescent and Gregori, as the oppressive figure becomes wary of such disenchantment spreading amongst the camp.

This pensive drama hinges on Gregori and the ambiguity surrounding this elusive presence. Our inability to figure out his motives is what drives this piece, as we struggle to comprehend whether he is merely providing shelter to single mothers who need it, or if he is merely in it for himself, vindictively manipulating those most susceptible and vulnerable? This tranquil environment he has created can either be interpreted as a place of serenity and peace – or it’s because he wants to remain hidden, away from the authorities. It is this internal conflict which makes this experience, as you pray fervently for the former but regrettably expect the latter.

Seeing how this film studiously lingers over our protagonist, it requires a fine performance from Cassel, and that much is a given in this instance. It’s not an easy role to take on – to convey both a warmth and charisma, with an uncompromising, callous side – to be a father figure and a tyrant. We completely believe that these women could fall into his trap, as he bears an inherent charm and swagger; but at the same time he maintains a distance with the viewer, as we remain convinced that he’s on the verge on something reprehensible.