Under the Cherry Moon: A Romantic Swindle Under the French Riviera Sun

A Riviera Rhapsody of Romance and Rip-offs

Picture this: the French Riviera, shimmering yachts, and two brothers whose charm is as potent as a vintage Bordeaux. But instead of romance, they're brewing up a con! "Under the Cherry Moon," directed by the one and only Prince (with cinematography by Michael Ballhaus), is a deliciously quirky blend of comedy, drama, and music, a cinematic soufflé that might just rise to the occasion – or spectacularly collapse.

Synopsis: Love, Lies, and Lavish Landscapes

Christopher and Tricky, two smooth-talking brothers, set their sights on a wealthy heiress vacationing in France. Their plan? A classic con, naturally. But when Christopher unexpectedly falls for the target, their perfectly orchestrated scheme begins to unravel faster than a cheap silk scarf in a washing machine. Let's just say, Cupid's arrow and a well-placed distraction are hardly a match for true love!

Technicolor Trickery and a Purple Reign

Prince’s directorial debut is a visual feast. The vibrant colors of the French Riviera practically leap off the screen. The film boasts a technicolor intensity that's akin to a Jackson Pollock painting exploded with a confetti cannon – in the best possible way! The soundtrack, naturally, is a Prince masterpiece, seamlessly weaving into the narrative, acting as both a seductive backdrop and a potent emotional driver.

Stellar Performances, Slightly Off-Key

Kristin Scott Thomas brings a captivating blend of innocence and steel to the role of the heiress, while Jerome Benton shines as the perpetually scheming Tricky. And, of course, Prince himself delivers a performance that's… well, uniquely Prince. Let's just say it's a performance you won't forget – for a myriad of reasons.

Themes of Love, Money, and the Absurd

Beneath the glitz and glamour, "Under the Cherry Moon" explores the tangled relationship between love and money. It’s a slightly cynical exploration of desires and disillusionment, a charmingly twisted take on the classic romantic comedy. It asks: can love truly bloom in the shadow of a meticulously planned swindle? The answer, much like the film itself, is both unpredictable and undeniably entertaining.

Verdict: A Glittering Gamble

"Under the Cherry Moon" isn't perfect. It’s a film that flaunts its imperfections like a prized possession. It's a bit uneven, occasionally melodramatic, but undeniably stylish. Its blend of comedy and drama, underscored by Prince's unforgettable soundtrack, creates a unique cinematic experience. It's a film that deserves a viewing for its sheer audacity and visual splendor. Rating: 5/5 stars (A perfectly balanced score, reflecting the film's own slightly unbalanced charm.) Recommended for: Fans of Prince's music, lovers of quirky romantic comedies, and anyone looking for a stylishly unpredictable cinematic adventure. In conclusion, "Under the Cherry Moon" is a delightful cinematic oddity; a film that’s as charmingly flawed as it is undeniably memorable. Prepare for a ride that’s as unpredictable as a French Riviera sunset.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 19 Jan 2025