Frères ennemis

I agree with most of the other reviews here. This is an outstanding film and has everything you'd want from a French crime thriller. Very powerful performances by by the the two leads and great supporting cast. Underrated at 6.3 currently.

It's your typical crime story with many of the characters ending up dead. What's atypical is the story's premise: 2 childhood friends end up at opposite sides of the law; one, a criminal, the other a narc agent. The way the story brings them together is something the viewer appreciates albeit it takes some time to set it up.

Matias Schoenaerts brings about a solid performance here as Manuel whose back is against the wall. Reda Kateb lends critical support to the engaging narrative.

It's initially slow burn but picks up speed and ends with an uncommon wallop.

A great piece of independent film making. Matthias Schoenaerts delivers a powerful performance. Highly underrated.

When a drug deal goes wrong two lifelong friends cross paths in the projects of France. When the investigation comes around rumors and lies become life or death for these friends as they try to solve the incident themselves, while also clearing their names. The 2018 French film 'Close Enemies' directed by David Oelhoffen, was nominated for Best Film in the 75th Venice Film Festival however did not receive the award. Common themes that presented themselves in this film were that of betrayal and friendship. These two themes went hand in hand throughout this film because although the characters were friends and had deep ties to each other and each other's families, there was still betrayal that occurred. Throughout the film the mention of family and friends and the appearance of gatherings involving both of these friends' families shows the strength that friendship had to these characters. However, the plot of the film overshadowed the theme of friendship when more times than not the friends were betraying each other and their families. Manuel, the main character and involved in the Arabic mob was portrayed as the thug of the film. Although never mentioned Manuel seemed to be out for a vendetta, and one that was psychologically impacting his day-to-day decisions. Whereas Driss, who was the main cop was portrayed more as the heroic character even though they both ended up tied up in the same situation regarding their status to the community. His values were disappearing and became more corrupt as the film progressed. I would definitely recommend this film to others, more specifically to my friends. I would also recommend this film to those that I know have an appreciation for action packed and crime filled movies. This film had a lot of suspense and definitely was able to portray this storyline through a realistic point of view, while keeping the viewers attention. However, parts of it were too predictable and took away from the suspenseful moments and the impact that those moments had on the viewer.

Tightly woven gangland thriller. The pacing was upbeat. For a crime based gangster piece it also has soul. Really appreciate the angle this was aiming for even if it does miss the mark in some areas.