Goliath (2022) Movie Review – A Tense Drama of Personal and Political Turmoil
Goliath (2022), directed by Frédéric Tellier, is a compelling French drama that explores the intersection of personal and political crises through the lives of three individuals. With a runtime of 2 hours and 1 minute, the film weaves a narrative around environmental law, activism, and the impact of a desperate act.
Plot Summary: Lives Collide in a Tragic Event
The film unfolds as the lives of three distinct characters become intertwined following a dramatic and desperate act:
- Patrick Fameau (Gilles Lellouche): A Parisian lawyer specializing in environmental law. Patrick is portrayed as an obscure and solitary figure who dedicates his life to fighting environmental issues but finds himself struggling against the powerful forces of corporate interests.
- France (Emmanuelle Bercot): A sports teacher by day and worker by night, France is also an activist with a passion for social justice. Her life is marked by tireless efforts to advocate for change, making her a central figure in the narrative.
- Mathias Rozen (Pierre Niney): A lobbyist and ambitious professional, Mathias is depicted as a man driven by urgency and political maneuvering. His position places him at the heart of the corporate and political spheres, contrasting sharply with Patrick’s and France’s more personal struggles.
Their destinies collide when a desperate farmer commits a drastic act that has far-reaching consequences for each of them. This event forces the characters to confront their values, ambitions, and the complex interplay of their personal and professional lives.
Performances: Strong and Convincing
- Gilles Lellouche as Patrick Fameau delivers a nuanced performance, capturing the complexity of a dedicated but disillusioned lawyer. Lellouche’s portrayal brings depth to the character’s moral and professional conflicts.
- Emmanuelle Bercot as France offers a compelling performance, reflecting the challenges and dedication of an activist caught in a web of personal and societal issues. Bercot’s portrayal adds emotional weight to the film.
- Pierre Niney as Mathias Rozen provides a strong performance as the driven lobbyist. Niney effectively conveys the character’s ambition and the ethical dilemmas he faces in his professional life.
Direction and Screenplay: Tense and Engaging
Frédéric Tellier’s direction of Goliath creates a tense and engaging atmosphere, effectively portraying the interconnected lives of the characters and the impact of the central event. Tellier’s approach to the film’s pacing and dramatic moments ensures a gripping experience for viewers.
The screenplay, co-written by Gaëlle Bellan, Simon Moutaïrou, and Frédéric Tellier, presents a complex narrative that intertwines personal and political themes. The dialogue is sharp and reflective, capturing the ethical and emotional stakes involved in the characters’ stories.
Themes: Environmental Justice, Activism, and Ethical Dilemmas
Goliath explores themes of environmental justice, activism, and ethical dilemmas. The film highlights the struggles of individuals fighting for environmental causes and the challenges posed by corporate and political power.
The theme of environmental justice is central to the film, with Patrick’s and France’s characters embodying the fight against ecological harm and corruption. Their efforts and sacrifices reflect the broader issues of environmental advocacy.
Activism and personal commitment are also significant themes, as the film delves into the characters’ motivations and the impact of their actions on their lives and the lives of others.
Ethical dilemmas are portrayed through the interactions and conflicts between the characters, particularly in the context of Mathias’s role as a lobbyist and the repercussions of the farmer’s act.
Where to Watch Goliath Online
As of 2024, Goliath is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services. Here are the options:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Goliath is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film in high definition and may have access to additional features such as subtitles and multiple audio options.
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or own Goliath, several digital platforms offer these options:
- Apple iTunes: You can rent or purchase Goliath on Apple iTunes, with options for HD and Ultra HD viewing. The platform supports all Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the film for rental or purchase, with various resolution options to suit different devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Goliath, often with deals or bundles that include other dramatic and political films.
Conclusion: A Thought-Provoking Drama
Goliath (2022) is a gripping and thought-provoking drama that delves into the complexities of environmental law, activism, and personal ethics. With strong performances, a tense narrative, and a focus on impactful themes, the film offers a compelling viewing experience.
For fans of dramatic and socially relevant films, Goliath is a must-watch. Its availability on various streaming platforms and digital rental services ensures that this impactful film can be enjoyed by a wide audience.
