Each movie is made with the purpose of striking at least one particular chord within the viewers. Once in a while we have movies that strikes our heart but in a warm way. Those are some of the best films I cherish and THE KID WITH A BIKE did exactly that. I did not watch any of the other Dardenne brother movies before this, but I would certainly look forward to add them in my Movies-to -watch list.
The plot follows a 12-year-old boy called Cyril, currently living in a youth farm (a modern orphanage) in Belgium. He idolizes the father who has for all intensive purposes abandoned him and acts out against those who would care for him, such as a hairdresser Samantha (played by Cecile De France) who offers to take him in at the weekends and the youth farm staff. The plot is simple and it is executed with the minimal of fuss. Yet, we could always feel the intensity and turbulance within Cyril who wants to hold on to his father and be together with him.
The camerawork is brilliant and the background score minimal to bring out the raw emotions which the protagonists are going through.Yet, the few times that we do hear Beethoven in the background, it amplifies the emotions being felt by the characters. The movie sort of portrays the coming of age of Cyril and how he gradually becomes at peace with his life, but we doubt if he ever can forget of settling with his dad who doesn't want him in his life. The character of Cyril can only be compared to ANTOINE of THE 400 BLOWS) and Thomas Doret delivers a performance as commendable as Jean-Pierre Leaud. Cecile De France is equally good in her portrayal of the kind hearted Samantha who tries her best to take care of Cyril.
This film is certainly raw and real. It has no glossiness or any particular theme. But it is delightfully presented. To all movie lovers, this must be a movie to keep in their collection for ever as it would reveal something new with every watch.
WORTHY MENTIONS
The background score when used leaves a wonderful effect
There are a couple of heartbreaking scenes and watch out for Cyril expressing himself
MY VERDICT
****
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