Once again Depardieu presents an arresting image. There are a few performances which do not quite keep up to his standard - otherwise the acting is first class.
The sets and attention to detail are in my view the best proof of Claude Berri's worth as a double César winner. There are a few gaps (understandably) in the story. The general feeling is of a pacy and entertaining story. The message is clear and in my view is every bit as politically envigorating as Ken Loach's underated Spanish Civil War classic - Land & Freedom.
If you have a leftish leaning, the graphic depiction of poverty and the slow creation of the miners' collective movement will probably leave you with a lump in your throat. It could just as well leave you feeling that the message is overplayed.
All in all, the film has everthing and cannot fail to arouse emotion. A bravura creation which should not be missed.
A definite 8/10
The sets and attention to detail are in my view the best proof of Claude Berri's worth as a double César winner. There are a few gaps (understandably) in the story. The general feeling is of a pacy and entertaining story. The message is clear and in my view is every bit as politically envigorating as Ken Loach's underated Spanish Civil War classic - Land & Freedom.
If you have a leftish leaning, the graphic depiction of poverty and the slow creation of the miners' collective movement will probably leave you with a lump in your throat. It could just as well leave you feeling that the message is overplayed.
All in all, the film has everthing and cannot fail to arouse emotion. A bravura creation which should not be missed.
A definite 8/10