The French film "Un p'tit gars de Ménilmontant" (which translates to "a little boy from Ménilmontant"), in other markets named "Jo's Neighbourhood", was an extremely pleasant watch. I find the French title to be conceiving, and the international title to be more precise of what to expect. Because this is not your cozy little adventure, but more of a social crime flick, with a violent twist.
I must admit I didn't have the greatest of expectations, though I've come to think that French thrillers and crime flicks from the last years have had great quality. But I enjoyed immensely this little gem. Inspired by a true story, but I guess this story is too entangled to be very true.
Such an enjoyment I had, watching this, this I rated a 10 out of pure pleasure. I wouldn't consider this a classic, but it's simply great excitement and entertainment, and as such a recommended watch. I'm really stunned by the low rating here on IMDb from the first 25 raters. They must have missed what I saw.
Jo (Joël) gets out of prison after 15 years, after committing a heist. He digs up a part of the money never recovered, but already here the problems start. Jo's neighborhood has changed a lot in the latter years. His beloved woman has got a new man, and even got a son, now 14. His best friend and partner in crime runs a café, but are being threaten and bullied by a gang of local teenage hoodlums. Jo is back, and this changes his old neighborhood...
Reknown French actor Olivier Marchal is perfect as Jo, which still knows a lot of tricks from back then. The rest of the cast is also brilliant. What amazes me even more, is the use of streets in Paris, as a lot goes on outside. The outskirts of the metropol is really beautifully depicted, and is almost like an actor in itself. I must say this adds to the experience a lot. Obviously this environment could have been a lesser part of this film, but the film makers have made the situation into a main role, which is really pleasing.
While the story is maybe a bit too much entangled to some, I really enjoy the suspense which lingers through the movie. This is very qualified film making and story telling. Maybe some would like it to be longer, and perhaps have a more defined or happy ending, I think this is one of the best films of the year.
Don't let the low score here mislead you. This is a little gem, and a pleasant watch which also give you a beautiful glimpse of Paris streets as well as a great time.
