Film Review: ‘Making Of’ directed by Cédric Kahn
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Cédric Kahn’s “Making Of” showcases a narrative that delves into the intricate web of filmmaking and human relationships. While it carries the weight of compelling themes and moments of brilliance, it occasionally stumbles in execution.
The plot revolves around Simon, a prominent French filmmaker embarking on his latest project—a poignant story of factory workers battling to preserve their workplace from corporate relocation. Yet, the production is plagued by chaos. Simon’s producer, Viviane, threatens to alter the ending and slash the budget. His crew goes on strike, his personal life unravels, and his lead actor, Alain, is an egocentric challenge.
Adding an intriguing layer to the film is Joseph, an extra yearning for a foothold in the film industry. Joseph takes the helm of the Making Of documentary, capturing the behind-the-scenes turmoil. What follows is an exploration of how the behind-the-scenes process can sometimes outshine the film itself, a theme skillfully explored.
Structured in three acts, “Making Of” skillfully juxtaposes Simon’s creative struggles with the personal battles of the film’s characters. This clever film-within-a-film approach not only showcases the challenges faced by filmmakers in staying true to their vision but also highlights the clash between artistic integrity and investor interests.
The characters in “Making Of” are emblematic of the factory workers’ predicaments portrayed in the film they are making. Their apprehension about embracing their true selves, achieving their aspirations, and breaking free from their dependencies adds depth to the narrative, mirroring the struggle of the workers they depict.
Clocking in at a two-hour runtime, “Making Of” engages its audience effectively in its initial half, drawing them into its intricate world. Unfortunately, the film loses momentum in its latter part, veering toward the peripheral, and occasionally descending into chaos, leaving viewers with a sense of missed potential.
In conclusion, Cédric Kahn’s “Making Of” is an exploration of the creative process and human dynamics in filmmaking. It is a film that shines brightest when exposing the intricacies of art versus commerce. While it doesn’t sustain its initial promise throughout, it remains a commendable endeavor in the realm of cinema, offering moments of genuine insight and reflection.
