Happy Face is a captivating dark drama film brought to life by the talented writer-director, Alexander Franchi. Known for unexpected and thought-provoking storytelling, Franchi made his directorial debut in 2009 with The Wild Hunt and has once again joined forces with the brilliant story writer, Joëlle Bourjolly.
This dynamic and original film delves into life’s conundrums, offering a compelling exploration of human experiences. With its intriguing narrative and depth, Happy Face proves to be a must-watch for fans of dark drama.
For more information and insights, check out Happy Face and The Wild Hunt.
Driving the story is Stan played by Robin L’Houmeau who as a newcomer on the silver screen belies his age. He throws as much at his role as any well-seasoned actor. The rest of the cast is an ensemble of disfigured people and all of the cast is a perfect mix of comfort inside the parts they are given. Perhaps it’s the reality of the situation that affords the film such a natural aesthetic.
Happy Face Movie
Stan is someone we get to know slowly. An unassuming quasi-hero whose inner demon of shallowness ebbs and fades. Stan is given the curveball of watching his mother go through several undeniably terrible treatments for Cancer. She openly berates her new appearance in front of him given she’s previously enjoyed a model-esque facade. What’s more, Stan has no idea how to navigate any of this.
Firstly, the film begins as Stan goes undercover, attending a support group run by an obese Vanessa (Debbie Lynch-White.) He tapes and bandages his face to ensure they think he bears the scars of ugliness. After the first meeting, he strips himself of his disguise. After that, he hits a local bar where he’s seen hitting on a blonde woman. When a very attractive brunette catches his eye, he quickly latches on and takes her home instead.
“The man who does more than he is paid for will soon be paid for more than he does.”
Quote from the movie, “Happy Face.”
Ultimately, the beauty of this narrative is in its ability to show that ugliness can be on the outside and the inside. These scarred and segregated people betray their own flaws, in turn, proving that sometimes what they perceive to be a superficial world is simply a result of their own making. Of course, there are times when society is simply an awful place, but even then moments of inspiration can be discovered. Each character is well fleshed out and overall the story closes with a sad but triumphant conclusion.
Although not as exciting or dark as I expected Happy Face has many life lessons. There are many emotional and moralistic undercurrents within its scenes that all force you to look at aspects of the world differently. It doesn’t matter if it’s your past you are hiding from or the insecurity you might have. Subsequently, there will be something relatable in this for anyone who watches it. Add to that a thought-provoking look at coming to terms with someone in the final stages of life and you have a beautiful look inside our beauty-obsessed world.
I give Happy Face
4 F*&k face wins out of 5
Happy Face 2018 – A Riveting Dark Drama
Best drama movies sometimes come in the form of heartfelt stories. “Happy Face” is unlike any movie you’ll watch about people with disabilities.
Happy Face 2018 Review
Director: Alexandre Franchi
Date Created: 2018-10-06 00:05
4
Pros
- Unique characters in an unusal setting
- Excellent performances from all cast
- Storyline follows a lovely sentiment that stays with you
Cons
- Outstays it's welcome with a little too much filler
