Um Banho de Vida

I was skeptic about this film, but it proved me totally wrong. It's really powerful and emotive, a beautiful story about a group of man each failing his life in his own way and trying to reclaim their manhood through Synchronized swimming. it might sound absurd said like this but it's really good a perfect reflexion of the crisis of masculinity of our time, add to it it's a perfectly funny and comical film.

Today I went to the cinema to watch this movie. I've watched some French movies, some from the Nouvelle Vague period and some comedies, which are generally quite funny. This one is different from the comedies I was used to, since it's more dramatic. Le Grand Bain is about a man in his 40's who has been unemployed for 2 years and depressed about it. He decides to join the all-male synchronized swimming at his local pool. There, he is trained by a woman and meets other men dealing with their own problems. Together they are understanding and helpful with each other, while trying to find meaning in their lives. They are teased for doing something associated with women, but they are able to stay focused towards their goal. I really enjoyed the movie, the visuals and angles were great. I loved the music and the dancing parts were funny. I liked what the movie was about, it caught my attention because the theme is unique and creative. It had its silly parts, but overall it was money well spent. I recommend it!

Not just the body in this case, but also the mind. Also overcoming obstacles and being able to compete in something that would likely look impossible at the beginning of the movie. A nice almost fairy tale like story, that can be described like a feel good movie! -

The actors really do their best to convey not just the emotions, but the emotional journey and the flaws they inhabit. A comedy drama that shows quite some craftmanship.

Friendship among men is an unusual theme in film. There are dozens of movies about women, and especially comedies. Therefore, this French film becomes a wonderful insight into men of adulthood and how a companionship develops. The film is fun, charming and engaging, but never nostalgic. Although the film is primarily a feel-good movie, it is also a serious undertone of where men's challenges in adulthood. As well as how it is for men when the role expectations they have not followed up, whether by unemployment, family problems or poorly paid jobs. But here it is primarily about how to do something about the situation and the cohesion between them. A great story and movie, this one.

It is an enjoyable French film; the plot is funny and at the same time dramatic, the performances are good and the swimming scenes are well directed; it is a good option to spend a pleasant time.