In the world of cinema, there are some movies or acts that make us able to live in different time and place. One such exotic cinematic treasure is ‘Red Island' (L'île Rouge) by Robin Campillo which will be premiered across the US this summer. This is a French movie which was first released across French theatres in May 2023 and is a drama that paints a true picture of life on Madagascar in the nineteen seventies from the viewpoint of the lead character – a ten-year-old boy named Thomas.
The novel is set in one of the final remaining French military outposts in what was once a vast colonial empire. Thomas, as any kid his age would do when emulating his comic book hero, Fantomette, starts spying on the adult figures around him. As the innocent child slowly looks into the lives of the colonizers and the colonized, he discovers a much darker and mysterious world than he could have ever thought.
The actors that have been selected for the cast are quite gifted, and they include Nadia Tereszkiewicz, Quim Gutierrez, Charlie Vauselle, and Amely Rakotoarimalala, and they act professionally. These roles are portrayed against the backdrop of Campillo's superb direction as well as the visually appealing shoot in colonial Madagascar.
Credited for the screenplay alongside Campillo, Gilles Marchand, and Jean-Luc Raharimanana, the story keeps the viewer glued to the screen while at the same time provoking profound insights. The production conducted by Marie-Ange Luciani is given enough potential to deliver a historic as well as emotionally charged movie experience.
It may be stated that ‘Red Island' is set to make its presence felt, as it is slated for a release in the United States on August 16th, 2024. It has already been noticed at such festivals as San Sebastian and London where the movie's artful visuals and the theme centred around colonialism as seen by a child was highly appreciated.
Do not let this chance slip away to look at this period of history through the gaze of Robin Campillo. ‘Red Island' is going to be one of those movies that will not only provide the audience with the tough attitude towards life but also the reminiscence of colonialism and the childhood when all the world seems to be a playground in a middle of the war. Save the date and prepare yourself for a voyage to the mysterious and vibrant world of Madagascar in the seventies.
