Stéphan Castang’s debut feature film, “Vincent doit mourir” (Vincent Must Die), made its much-anticipated premiere at the International Critics’ Week during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. This atmospheric thriller is a captivating homage to classic cinema, drawing inspiration from iconic films such as John Carpenter’s “The Fog” and Don Siegel’s “Invasion of the Body Snatchers.”
The film’s opening sequence immediately sets the tone, with an electrifying electronic music theme reminiscent of Carpenter’s work. Castang expertly weaves cinematic references throughout the narrative, paying tribute to the films that have influenced him. The director’s love for the genre is apparent, but at times, it hampers the clarity of the underlying social critique.
“Vincent Must Die” serves as a scathing critique of mass media’s invasive nature and its detrimental effect on individuals. Castang’s intention is clear, but the film occasionally prioritizes adherence to genre conventions and entertainment value over delivering a more impactful message. Nevertheless, the early moments of the movie, particularly Vincent’s unprovoked attack, create an immersive and unsettling atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
One of the film’s standout aspects is the exceptional performances by Karim Leklou and Vimala Pons. Leklou portrays Vincent, a bewildered victim who becomes entangled in a series of inexplicable events, while Pons shines as Margaux, a woman who unwittingly finds herself involved with Vincent. Both actors expertly convey their characters’ disorientation and childlike disbelief, adding depth and authenticity to the film.
Castang exhibits a firm grasp of the genre’s tone, crafting moments of breath-taking suspense throughout the narrative. The scenes depicting collective insanity outside the city, where people succumb to violent outbursts reminiscent of possession, are particularly memorable. The film explores the essential question of how much time humanity has left before it falls prey to the chaos it has created, lending a chilling and darkly ironic undertone.
As an up-and-coming filmmaker, Castang’s scathing criticism of societal issues is potent and thought-provoking. “Vincent Must Die” has garnered attention, earning a nomination for the prestigious Caméra d’Or (Golden Camera) award at the 76th annual Cannes Film Festival. It is a testament to Castang’s talent and potential as a filmmaker.
The ensemble cast also deserves commendation, including François Chattot as Père, Michaël Perez as Joachim, and Emmanuel Vérité as Yves, who all contribute to the film’s gripping atmosphere. The supporting cast, featuring Guillaume Bursztyn, Benoit Lambert, Jean-Rémy Chaize, Maurin Olles, and Jean-Christophe Folly, adds depth and intensity to the narrative.
Mathieu Naert’s screenplay demonstrates a keen understanding of the genre, while John Kaced’s original score enhances the film’s suspenseful moments. Editor Méloé Poilevé skillfully weaves together the story’s various elements, creating a cohesive and engrossing experience. The film’s production was overseen by producers Thierry Lounas and Claire Bonnefoy, with international sales being handled by Goodfellas.
“Vincent Must Die” marks Stéphan Castang’s impressive debut as a filmmaker. While the film occasionally gets entangled in genre conventions, it showcases his talent and potential as a storyteller. As the audience eagerly awaits Castang’s future projects, it’s clear that his unique voice and ability to blend homage with social critique will continue to make a significant impact on the world of cinema.
