Love me if you Dare (Jeux d'Enfants) Made in: France Language: French Director: Yann Samuell Starring: Guillame Canet, Marion Cotillard Year: 2003
Synopsis: In this eccentric French film, director Yann Samuell weaves a bizarre love story about Julien (Guillame Canet) and Sophie (Marion Cotillard). Ever since they were little children, Julien and Sophie have been playing a strange game of one-upmanship, where they take turns daring each other to pull off pranks ranging from silly to outrageous.
As they enter adulthood, and cross various stages of life, the dares continue. However, when mutual romance starts complicating the situation, the pranks become more elaborate and dangerous as Julien and Sophie risk destroying not only their own lives, but the lives of others.
The game eventually proves that reality cannot be twisted- only confronted. And that love, above all, should never be treated as a game.
Remarks: This film was a hit when it was released in France. Visually daring and often irreverent in its humor, Love Me if You Dare is made with much boldness and creativity, resulting in an intriguing viewing experience. The strongest part about this film, I believe, is its highly unpredictable nature.
Just when you think the story will take you in one direction, it yanks you in another, often with gut-wrenching, heart-breaking, or jaw-dropping results.
The love story is pretty sick and twisted in parts, but light enough to be taken as a guilty pleasure rather than a disturbing tragedy.
Who would like this movie: With its visual flair and energy, this movie will appeal to you if you're a creative/romantic type who appreciates, or at least can tolerate, unusual storytelling strategies and crazy plot twists.
If you're new to foreign films and are making an effort to sample a different kind of movie, this will definitely be quite an experience. But bear in mind, it's not for the faint of heart.
