Un autre monde

A handsomely filmed colonial saga set on Reunion Island in 1915, this movie is thematically somewhat similar to such movies as 'Island in the Sun' and 'Indochine'. Indeed, the wonderful actress Dominique Blanc graces both this and the 1992 picture.

'Un autre monde' blends the familial, racial, political and societal aspects of life on the island into a heady and involving mix. Having left France, a boy arrives on the island to meet his remarried father. He quickly develops a close bond with his coloured half-sister and comes to witness and understand the deprivations endured by the Indian and African labourers and the political, religious and sexual machinations of the rich white ruling class.

The cinematography, the costumes and the lilting, melodic score are all quite wonderful and collectively serve to heighten the effect of this sensual and engrossing movie. Dominique Blanc and Claude Brasseur are both marvellous but I want to particularly applaud Niels Schneider and Mati Diop for their performances. As the new boy and his marginalised half sister, they convey with a touching empathy and understanding the heartfelt connection that develops between their characters. This is an elegant, insightful and stylish movie and one that I thoroughly enjoyed watching. 8.5/10