Les Invisibles (2018) Movie Review: A Heartfelt Exploration of Dignity and Solidarity
Introduction
“Les Invisibles” (2018), directed by Louis-Julien Petit, is a French dramedy that offers a touching and humorous look into the lives of homeless women in France and the social workers who strive to help them. The film, inspired by the book “Sur la route des invisibles” by Claire Lajeunie, blends realism with warmth, highlighting the struggles and resilience of women living on the margins of society. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s narrative, its social commentary, and the standout performances, as well as provide details on where to stream or purchase “Les Invisibles” online.
Plot Overview
“Les Invisibles” centers around a women’s shelter in a small French town that is facing closure due to a lack of results in reintegrating its residents into society. The shelter’s social workers, led by Manu (Corinne Masiero), Audrey (Audrey Lamy), Hélène (Noémie Lvovsky), and Angélique (Déborah Lukumuena), are determined to fight against the decision. They refuse to abandon the women under their care, many of whom have already been through the worst society has to offer.
In a desperate attempt to keep the shelter open, the social workers decide to bend the rules. They start offering unauthorized day programs, job training, and personal development workshops, all while helping the women regain their self-confidence and sense of dignity. As they work together, the boundaries between social workers and the women they help begin to blur, leading to profound and sometimes humorous moments of solidarity and empowerment.
The women at the shelter, each with their own story of hardship, gradually come out of their shells. The film portrays their journey with both humor and poignancy, highlighting the importance of community and the small acts of kindness that can make a world of difference.
Themes and Social Commentary
“Les Invisibles” is a film with a strong social message, shedding light on the often-overlooked plight of homeless women. It challenges the viewer to see beyond the stereotypes and stigmas associated with homelessness, focusing instead on the humanity and individual stories of those affected.
One of the film’s central themes is the idea of visibility. The title itself, “Les Invisibles,” refers to the women who are unseen by society—those who slip through the cracks of the social safety net. The film makes a powerful statement about how society treats its most vulnerable members, and it calls attention to the systemic failures that contribute to homelessness.
Despite the serious subject matter, “Les Invisibles” maintains a light-hearted and hopeful tone. The film balances its critique of social issues with moments of humor and warmth, illustrating that even in the darkest circumstances, there is room for laughter, friendship, and hope.
The relationship between the social workers and the women they help is at the heart of the film. It explores the idea of mutual support and the notion that everyone, regardless of their social status, has something valuable to offer. The film portrays these interactions with authenticity and respect, avoiding clichés and instead focusing on the genuine connections that develop between the characters.
Performances and Character Dynamics
The performances in “Les Invisibles” are a standout element of the film. Corinne Masiero leads the cast with a compelling portrayal of Manu, a tough yet compassionate social worker who refuses to give up on the women under her care. Masiero brings depth and nuance to her character, capturing both her determination and the emotional toll of her work.
Audrey Lamy and Noémie Lvovsky provide strong support as Audrey and Hélène, two social workers who are equally committed to their mission. Lamy’s character adds a touch of humor and lightness to the film, while Lvovsky portrays Hélène with a quiet strength and empathy.
The non-professional actors who play the homeless women also deliver remarkable performances. Their portrayals are raw and authentic, adding a layer of realism to the film that is both touching and eye-opening. The decision to cast women with lived experiences of homelessness in these roles lends the film an additional level of credibility and impact.
The chemistry between the social workers and the women is one of the film’s greatest strengths. Their interactions are filled with moments of tenderness, conflict, and mutual respect, highlighting the complexity of their relationships. These dynamics are portrayed with honesty and sensitivity, making the characters feel fully realized and relatable.
Cinematography and Visual Style
“Les Invisibles” is shot in a documentary-like style, with naturalistic lighting and handheld camera work that adds to the film’s sense of realism. The cinematography, by David Chambille, effectively captures the bleakness of the women’s situation while also finding beauty in their resilience and camaraderie.
The film’s setting—a small, run-down shelter on the outskirts of town—serves as a microcosm of the larger issues at play. The sparse, utilitarian environment contrasts with the warmth and energy of the characters, underscoring the idea that community and human connection are what truly matter.
The use of close-ups in the film emphasizes the emotions and inner lives of the characters, allowing the audience to connect with them on a deeper level. This visual approach reinforces the film’s theme of visibility, encouraging viewers to look beyond the surface and see the humanity in each character.
Soundtrack and Emotional Resonance
The soundtrack of “Les Invisibles” complements the film’s tone, featuring a mix of uplifting and melancholic tracks that enhance the emotional impact of the story. The music, combined with the film’s heartfelt performances and compelling narrative, creates a powerful and resonant viewing experience.
The film’s emotional resonance lies in its ability to portray the struggles of its characters with honesty and compassion. While the story is rooted in the harsh realities of homelessness, it also celebrates the strength and resilience of the women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. This balance between realism and optimism is what makes “Les Invisibles” such a moving and thought-provoking film.
Where to Watch “Les Invisibles” Online in the United States
If you’re interested in watching “Les Invisibles,” here are some streaming and purchase options available in the United States:
1. Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: “Les Invisibles” is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
2. Apple iTunes
- Availability: The film is also available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes, offering a convenient option for Apple device users.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
3. Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: Google Play Movies & TV offers “Les Invisibles” for rental or purchase, catering to a broad audience.
- Rental Price: Roughly $3.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
4. Vudu
- Availability: “Les Invisibles” can also be rented or purchased on Vudu, a popular digital streaming service.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
Conclusion
“Les Invisibles” (2018) is a heartfelt and socially conscious film that shines a light on the invisible struggles of homeless women while celebrating their strength and resilience. Through its compelling performances, authentic storytelling, and blend of humor and poignancy, the film offers a powerful commentary on the importance of dignity, solidarity, and human connection.
With various streaming options available, “Les Invisibles” is a must-watch for those interested in films that tackle important social issues with empathy and realism. It’s a story that will leave you both moved and inspired, reminding us all of the power of kindness and the importance of seeing those who are often unseen.
