Daaaaaali !

Daaaaaali! is Quentin Dupieux's daring plunge into surrealism, a cinematic marvel that defies narrative conventions and revels in the unpredictable. The film follows the escapades of a determined young journalist, Judith, as she attempts to interview the legendary Salvador Dalí. However, what unfolds on screen is a kaleidoscopic dreamscape that transcends the boundaries of reality, offering a cinematic experience as disconcerting as it is enchanting.

Quentin Dupieux's genius lies in his ability to create a constantly surprising narrative. The film is a rollercoaster of absurdity, filled with deadpan humor, incongruous situations and a palpable sense of the surreal. Dalí, played indifferently by five different actors, becomes the focal point of the madness, each performance capturing the essence of the eccentric artist with impeccable comic flair. Romain Duris, as Judith's abrasive producer, adds another layer of comic brilliance to the entire cast.

The surrealism present in Daaaaaali! is not just a stylistic choice, but a narrative philosophy that rejects conventional norms of plot structure. Dream logic becomes the guiding force, and audiences are treated to sequences such as Dalí walking endlessly without getting closer to Judith, or the grotesque imagery of maggot-infested food. It's an indescribable strangeness that transforms mundane situations into extraordinary moments, making the film a unique and wondrous experience.

What sets Quentin Dupieux apart is his refusal to follow the beaten path. He challenges the audience to accept absurdity and unpredictability, offering 79 minutes of cinematic bliss where expectations are constantly shaken. The multiple actors who play Dalí add an extra layer of complexity, each contributing to the character's larger-than-life personality. The film has fun dancing on the edge of reality, leaving the audience both gasping and laughing, unsure whether to be shocked or amused.

In the midst of the madness, Quentin Dupieux subtly weaves elements of reflection. The blurring of dreams and reality invites us to contemplate the nature of narration and the author's voice. When Dalí turns the camera on Judith, questioning the importance of the storyteller, the film launches a conversation about the artist's role in representing more famous lives on screen. It's a nuanced layer that adds depth to the comic chaos.

Thomas Bangalter's repetitive score is integral to the film's comic rhythm and reinforces the overall experience. Daaaaaali! is a testament to Quentin Dupieux's mastery of surrealist cinema. It's not just a film, it's a celebration of the absurd, a journey into the unknown and a testament to the director's unrivalled creativity. For those who appreciate the unconventional, revel in the outrageous and yearn for an unparalleled cinematic experience, Daaaaaali! is a must-see. Don't miss out on the pleasure of immersing yourself in this cinematic wonderland that defies categorization and stands out for its brilliance.

Daaaaaalí!
Written and directed by Quentin Dupieux
Produced by Mathieu Verhaeghe, Thomas Verhaeghe
Starring Anaïs Demoustier , Édouard Baer, Jonathan Cohen, Gilles Lellouche et Pio Marmaï, Didier Flamand , Boris Gillot, Romain Duris, Agnès Hurstel , Marie Bunel, Nicolas Carpentier, Jérôme Niel , Marc Fraize, Jean-Marie Winling,, Tom Dingler, Nicolas Laurent , Éric Naggar, Ken Samuels 
Music by Thomas Bangalter
Cinematography : Quentin Dupieux
Edited by Quentin Dupieux          
Production companies : Atelier de Production, France 3 Cinéma
Distributed by Diaphana Distribution (France)
Release date : September 7, 2023 (Venice Mostra), February 7, 2024 (France)
Running time : 78 minutes

Seen on February 09, 2024 at UGC Ciné-cité Les Halles

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