A Prophet - A-

On DVD (2009). Rated R, 156 minutes. Trailer.

A Prophet is a French film about a low level criminal, Malik El Djebena, and his Darwinian ascent to the top of the French criminal system. Nominated by the Academy for Best Foreign Film in 2009, the film is a 'think-piece' that will require more than 1 viewing to fully digest. Malik enters prison and his plan to keep to himself is quickly disrupted when the ruling gang (the Corsicans) issues him an ultimatum: either he kills someone for them, or they kill him. After he agonizes over his task, he is slowly accepted by the Corsicans while being spurned by the muslims. He is a French Arab, which means that neither group really accepts him, but that he has a little bit of street cred with each sect. Click below for more on a gritty and lyrical film.

The film is bookended by Malik's entry and exit from prison. His gradual ascent is achieved through hard work, ruthlessness, luck and brains. In that way the film feels like an ode to survival. The film moves into "A" territory with its artful analysis of the impact of his actions on Malik's soul. Throughout the film he is haunted by his first victim, and his best friend's bout with cancer and his young family keep Malik tethered to who he is.

The best sequences are on all of Malik's "day passes" where he gets to leave prison for 12 hours at a time and do the bidding of his Corsican leader and his own empire on the side. All of his interactions (especially the search at the airport) are first rate and show his uncanny knack for survival and strength.

I need to watch this again to really do this review justice. The film started at a B+, but rose quickly to an A- after thinking and reflecting on the film. Several sequences are stuck in my brain and I have grown very fond of Malik's character. One interesting note is how nice and humane the French prisons are. Worth the 2.5 hours.

P.S. Will Priest post in August?