A Very Long Engagement

The film is set in post-World War I France, a period marked by widespread grief, social upheaval, and a deep skepticism towards authority. Many families were left searching for missing or presumed dead soldiers, creating a climate ripe for conspiracy theories and desperate hope, which the film accurately captures.

• Audrey Tautou's compelling and nuanced performance as Mathilde, driving the narrative with unwavering determination and vulnerability.
• The intricate and layered plot, weaving together multiple timelines, characters, and perspectives to create a rich tapestry of love, war, and resilience.
• The film's exploration of the devastating human cost of war, challenging romanticized notions and portraying the brutal realities faced by soldiers and their families.
• Jean-Pierre Jeunet's visually stunning direction, employing vibrant colors, fantastical elements, and innovative camera work to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Fun Facts

• Jean-Pierre Jeunet originally wanted to make the film in English, but Audrey Tautou insisted on French, feeling it was essential to the authenticity of the story.
• The film features numerous cameos from well-known French actors, some in very small roles, adding to the sense of a broad societal landscape affected by the war.
• The distinctive imagery and color palette are reminiscent of Jeunet's previous work, particularly 'Amelie,' creating a visual link between the two films despite their vastly different subject matter.