The Crime is Mine (2023) Movie Review

 In François Ozon's latest best film, "The Crime is Mine," crime takes a whimsical turn, proving that it can indeed pay off in the world Ozon creates. The story follows aspiring actress Madeleine Verdier, played by Nadia Tereszkiewicz, who encounters a famous producer with sinister intentions. Things take a hilarious twist when Madeleine, accused of murder, confesses to escape "justice," setting off a chain of events involving the real killer, silent film star Odette Chaumette (Isabelle Huppert).

Ozon, known for his dramas like "Summer of 85" and "Frantz," returns to comedy, crafting a fantasy world set in the glamorous 1930s. The film showcases exquisite gowns, Art Deco luxury, and a corrupt court and gullible public that get entangled in Madeleine's supposed crime. The director weaves a dizzying comedy around a court claiming to support women's rights, while revealing the reality of their inconsistent support.

Madeleine and her friend Pauline, played by Rebecca Marder, employ a defense strategy rooted in sisterhood and solidarity, highlighting how men have exploited them. However, when Odette enters the scene, threatening to expose them as frauds, the dynamic shifts. Ozon, who penned the script, blends murder, romance, blackmail, and a touch of French film history into an escapist, frothy narrative reminiscent of a farcical version of "Chicago."

Cinematographer Manuel Dacosse uses a palette of macaroon colors, from pastels to mauves, creating a visually appealing backdrop for Ozon's screwball comedy. While not every element works seamlessly, the film maintains a brisk pace, swiftly moving from one scene to the next.

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The trio of leading women excels in keeping the energy silly yet vibrant. Tereszkiewicz portrays Madeleine as a wide-eyed ingenue with a clever edge, while Marder's Pauline is sharp and adept at arguing her way out of various situations. Their dynamic echoes "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," with subtle hints of romantic tension. Meanwhile, Huppert injects the film with a villainous diva presence, channeling a mix of Sarah Bernhardt and Norma Desmond.

In summary, "The Crime is Mine" offers a delightful blend of murder, romance, and comedy, with a nod to French film history. The film's energy, coupled with the stellar performances of its leading women, keeps the audience engaged in this whimsical tale of deception and sisterhood.

François Ozon's "The Crime is Mine" may seem a bit silly, but it's incredibly entertaining. The French farce takes a lighthearted approach to murder, showcasing how it oddly improves the life of the main character, Madeleine. Ozon cleverly satirizes a corrupt justice system that conveniently shuffles criminals around and explores how public opinion can turn Madeleine into a symbol of feminism.

Nadia Tereszkiewicz and Rebecca Marder fully embrace their roles and display great chemistry on screen. However, it's Isabelle Huppert who steals the spotlight, relishing in her character's criminal antics and making every scene she's in truly memorable.

The Crime is Mine Movie 

• Rating: 6.6/10

• Director: François Ozon

• Writer: François, Ozon Philippe, Piazzo Georges Berr