Abdellatif Kechiche's Mektoub, My Love: Canto Due has arrived, and it's every bit as divisive as its predecessor. The French-Tunisian director, known for his unflinching portrayals of human relationships, delivers another visually arresting yet deeply polarising film.
A Feast for the Senses
The sequel maintains Kechiche's signature style – long, lingering shots that capture the raw energy of youth and the Mediterranean summer. Cinematographer Marco Graziaplena paints with light, turning sun-drenched beaches and crowded nightclubs into vibrant canvases.
Controversy Follows
True to form, Kechiche doesn't shy away from controversy. The film's extended, explicit scenes have already sparked debate about artistic merit versus gratuitous content. At nearly four hours, Canto Due tests audience patience while rewarding those willing to engage with its hypnotic rhythm.
Performance and Provocation
The young cast delivers committed performances, particularly Ophélie Bau and Shaïn Boumedine, who embody the carefree spirit and hidden vulnerabilities of their characters. Kechiche's direction pushes them to emotional and physical extremes, resulting in moments of startling authenticity.
A Love Letter to Cinema
Beneath the controversy lies a genuine passion for filmmaking. Kechiche references European cinema masters while creating something distinctly his own. The director's obsession with capturing fleeting moments of beauty and truth remains undimmed.
Whether Mektoub, My Love: Canto Due represents a masterpiece or self-indulgence depends entirely on the viewer's tolerance for Kechiche's uncompromising vision. One thing's certain – it won't leave anyone indifferent.
