La vie au ranch

Mimicking an established new wave style of narrative and shooting, La vie au Ranch is not really delivering neither on the substance nor on style. Extensively documented house parties are dialogue-rich, but hard to follow since all the participants are talking simultaneously and often starting phone calls to make matters worse. It is a raw look at chaotic youth with a lot of characters and little to no backstory to know them, which adds to the unique charm of the movie.

There is, however a story in this and those who are patient enough can enjoy it. Main issue for me is the length: it's a full feature film that could have been much shorter. If you are interested in taking a glance at the youth how it was in 2009 when smartphones were not yet everywhere, you may be are up for a treat. Otherwise, there's not much there to specifically look for this title. There are movies with the better sums of the parts that have been used there, especially if you are into new wave.

This one got recommended on Mubi. I don't know French so had to rely on subtitles. Over all, it's a good watch, especially if you're past your 20s. I am from Asia but it was interesting to know that the idea of fun among youth and their general experiences have so much in common across cultures.

Regarding movie, it's mostly conversations among friends. There is no core story to bind all of it. But it's a good watch with some funny moments. Give it a try. You might like it.