a short film from X Filme Creative Pool in co-operation with Novem Production, Paris
| Director Screenplay Producers |
Tom Tykwer Tom Tykwer Maria Köpf, X Filme Creative Pool GmbH Emmanuel Benbihy, Novem Productions |
| Shooting period Location Production Premiere Release Distribution |
6 to 9 August 2002 |
| Website | |
| www.true-movie.de | |
| Film Essay by Peter Cowie. |
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| True was initiated as a contribution to a portmanteau production, in which various directors were meant to respond to the mood and character of a different “quartier” of Paris. The project stalled, and Tykwer, having elected to do the 10th district, decided to press ahead with the story he had written about a blind student and a budding American actress. Shot in English and French, True makes the most of its locations in Paris. The blind student is played by Melchior Beslon, who was so arresting as Otto in The Princess and the Warrior. Although it strikes us as unlikely that someone so handicapped could dash so fast through the streets of Paris, Beslon is genuinely blind in real life. His gestures and voice are compelling, and have a sensitivity that helps us empathize with his condition. Natalie Portman, well known from Léon and the recent Star Wars movies, serves as a perfect foil for Beslon. Like Run Lola Run, the film is a kinetic riff on the theme of destiny, and misunderstandings in love. The best part of True is a glorious cadenza of accelerated images, as the student recalls the relationship he has had with his girl friend. In less than three minutes of screen time, novelty becomes routine, ecstasy becomes boredom, rifts and solitude appear inevitable – until the final twist, which turns the joke on the audience. Once again – and with obvious pleasure – Tykwer has created a couple who race in tune with life, challenging their karma at every turn. |
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