Paris, 13th District
Cert 18, 105 minutes, in cinemas 18 March
Starring: Lucie Zhang, Makira Samba, Noémie Merlant Director: Jacques Audiard THE PLOT In the titular 13th arrondissement of Paris, telesales worker Emilie (Zhang) promotes Camille (Samba) from lodger to lover. Meanwhile, law student Nora (Merlant) becomes obsessed with “Amber Sweet” (Jehnny Beth), who makes a living as a cam girl. WHAT’S RIGHT WITH IT? France’s Jacques Audiard
(A Prophet) and his writing team – which includes fellow acclaimed filmmaker Céline Sciamma – skilfully adapt three short stories by graphic novelist Adrian Tomine to create a sexy, zeitgeisty snapshot of millennial life. WHAT’S WRONG WITH IT? It’s not a criticism, but be advised that this was shot in black and white. VERDICT The years may be passing for veteran filmmaker Audiard, but thanks to a savvy choice of collaborators, his latest work feels plenty fresh and modern. ★★★★