Festivals - FCAD 2024 : The Damned Impresses at Deauville’s 50th Edition

By Mulder, Deauville, Centre International de Deauville, 12 september 2024

The 50th edition of the Deauville American Film Festival, celebrating a half-century of showcasing American cinema in the heart of Normandy, brought a slew of compelling films to its lineup. One of the standout entries in the competition was Roberto Minervini's The Damned, a harrowing yet meditative journey through the untamed American frontier during the Civil War era. The film captivated audiences with its atmospheric storytelling and Minervini's signature approach of blending raw realism with deeply emotional, almost existential undertones.

Set in the winter of 1862, The Damned follows a company of volunteer soldiers assigned to patrol the uncharted western territories of the United States. Tasked with an arduous mission amidst the backdrop of a fractured nation, the soldiers are soon confronted not only by the physical demands of the harsh environment but also by the shifting meaning of their mission. As their initial goals begin to unravel, the soldiers are left grappling with the broader implications of their engagement, questioning the very fabric of the conflict they are part of. With this period piece, Minervini invites viewers to reflect on the uncertainties and moral complexities that arise in times of war.

The film, a co-production between Italy, the USA, and Belgium, stars a talented ensemble cast, including Jeremiah Knupp, René W. Solomon, and Cuyler Ballenger, whose performances contributed to the film’s authenticity and emotional depth. Minervini’s unique cinematographic style is brought to life by Carlos Alfonso Corral, whose skillful use of natural lighting and expansive landscapes paints a visual masterpiece that emphasizes the isolation and desolation of the soldiers’ journey.

The Damned stands out for its intimate portrayal of historical events, far from the grandiose depictions often found in Civil War epics. Instead, the film zooms in on the internal battles waged by individuals caught in the tides of history, a hallmark of Minervini's filmmaking. His previous works have similarly delved into the lives of marginalized and struggling communities, and The Damned continues this exploration, albeit within a different historical context.

Following its screening at Deauville, the film was praised not only for its gripping narrative but also for its technical prowess. Minervini’s collaboration with cinematographer Corral and editor Marie-Hélène Dozo ensured that each scene was carefully crafted to maintain the film’s slow-burn intensity. The score, also composed by Corral, subtly underlined the emotional landscape of the film, further immersing the audience in the soldiers' journey.

Minervini's decision to shoot in remote, rugged locations mirrored the characters’ emotional states, reinforcing the themes of isolation and existential dread that permeate the narrative. The immersive experience left a profound impact on the festival-goers, leading to a thoughtful discussion with Minervini during a post-screening Q&A session, where he elaborated on his inspiration for the film and the challenges of portraying such a nuanced period of American history.

The Damned is expected to resonate well beyond the festival circuit, as its themes of moral ambiguity and human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds are timeless. Its Deauville debut marks yet another successful collaboration between European and American filmmakers, adding a rich layer of diversity to the festival's already impressive selection.

With its slow-burning intensity and unflinching portrayal of war, The Damned has certainly earned its place as a key film of FCAD 2024. As the Deauville American Film Festival continues its celebration of American cinema, films like The Damned ensure that the complexities and contradictions of history are brought to life, providing much-needed reflections on the past while resonating with contemporary audiences. The film was screened several times during the festival and is anticipated to attract further attention from both critics and wider audiences as it moves through the festival circuit and beyond​.

You can discover our exclusive photos from the screening and the Q&A on our Flickr page

Synopsis:
Winter of 1862. During the American Civil War, the U.S. Army sends a company of volunteers west to patrol uncharted territory. As their mission changes course, they question the meaning of their commitment.

The Damned
Written and directed by Roberto Minervini
Produced by Paolo Benzi, Denise Ping Lee, Roberto Minervini & Paolo Del Brocco
Starring Jeremiah Knupp, René W. Solomon, Cuyler Ballenger, Noah Carlson, Judah Carlson, Tim Carlson, Bill Gehring
Music: Carlos Alfonso Corral
Director of photography: Carlos Alfonso Corral
Editing: Marie-Hélène Dozo
Production companies: Okta Film, Pupa Film, Michigan Films, Rai Cinema, BeTV, Moonduckling Films
Distributed by Les Films du Losange (France)
Release date: NC
Running time: 89 minutes

Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville