TEHRAN- The Cinematheque of the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) will screen French filmmaker Quentin Dupieux’s 2023 black comedy movie “Yannick” on July 24.

The screening will be followed by a review session by Iranian film critic Ramtin Shahbazi.

"Yannick" is a thought-provoking and humorous exploration of creativity, power dynamics, and the human need for entertainment. The film tells the story of Yannick, a parking attendant who takes a Parisian theatre hostage and rewrites a mediocre play under his own direction.

The film opens with a lackluster performance of the boulevard comedy "Le Cocu" at the Bouffes Parisiens theatre. The three actors, Sophie Denis, Paul Rivière, and William Keller, are struggling to engage the audience's attention in a half-empty room. However, their performance is suddenly disrupted by Yannick, a disgruntled audience member who has traveled from Melun to see the play. Yannick is unimpressed by the production and decides to take matters into his own hands.

With a revolver in hand, Yannick demands that the actors stop performing and begins rewriting the play under his direction. Despite their initial resistance, the actors eventually agree to comply with Yannick's demands. As they learn the new script, Yannick takes the opportunity to connect with the audience, who are initially shocked but eventually won over by his charm.

As the play progresses, Yannick's creative vision is put on full display. He injects humor and wit into the script, turning what was once a mundane production into a hilarious and entertaining spectacle. The audience is won over by Yannick's talent and enthusiasm, and even the actors begin to enjoy themselves.

However, not everyone is pleased with Yannick's takeover. Paul, one of the actors, becomes increasingly frustrated with Yannick's antics and decides to take matters into his own hands. He manages to disarm Yannick and takes control of the situation, but not before Yannick has already written a new script that he is convinced will be a hit.

The film ends with Yannick's play coming to an end, and the B.R.I. arriving to take him into custody. But despite the chaos and disruption he caused, Yannick's creative energy has brought people together and created an unforgettable experience.

Throughout the film, Dupieux explores themes of creativity, power dynamics, and the human need for entertainment. He also pokes fun at the conventions of traditional theatre and challenges the notion of what constitutes "good" art. With its witty dialogue and clever plot twists, "Yannick" is a hilarious and thought-provoking film that will leave audiences laughing and reflecting on their own creative impulses.

The cast delivers standout performances, particularly Raphaël Quenard as Yannick. His charisma and energy bring depth and humor to the character, making him both relatable and infuriating in equal measure. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Sophie Denis and Paul Rivière as they navigate their roles as actors under Yannick's direction.

Visually, the film is stunning, with clever camera work and production design that brings the world of theatre to life. The use of music is also noteworthy, adding to the film's energy and humor.

SAB/