This is the best of this enjoyable series thus far. It stars the famous Canadian actress and singer Ginette Reno as the opposing grandmother in Imelda's family, someone she loathed and has finally gone to make amends with, after (might as well be) a trillion years. It begins with Imelda changing her mind about suicide and visiting a church where Reno's character sings. We are philosophically treated to Reno interpreting a psychologically poetic song that is perhaps about herself... and people like Imelda? The lyrics feel like they have been written on a broken mirror. It is beautifully, gorgeously written and has a perfect laid-back touch of comedy - stemming from truth and the weirdness that life makes us experience. Martin Villeneuve (Mars et Avril - 2012), who plays his grandmother Imelda (while also writing, directing and producing the ongoing series) engages in a chat with Simone, and the conversation is full of humanity, humility, drama and humor. As always, Imelda is a paradox... first giving praise, then an insult and back and forth. Her character is more fleshed out than in the previous 2 episodes. This is a cinematic treat, because the emotions are so well acted out. Although this event didn't take place in real life, it's part of a 'what if' philosophical journey Imelda is on before departing this world, which she funnily doubts will ever happen despite her old age. This short film series is made from passion and filmed brilliantly by the excellent crews that Montreal is known to have. Reno is a true star; she masters firm emotions and cerebral nuances and then can jump onto the other side of the brain's spectrum - to be seen seeping with moments of grandeur then leading to tears. She is an amazing singer and a superb actress. I wept and laughed at her performance and dialogue. Villeneuve can handle all production hats, if need be, and comes from a family of notaries (see part 2 on Vimeo). This is the best 15 minutes of Quebec (and beyond) cinema. Episodes 4, 5 and 6 have just been shot in March, June and August 2021, and the rest up to 8 in Fall 2021. Then in 2022 the parts will be summed into a single feature. Martin Villeneuve and Robert Lepage (who plays his father in part 2) are the best filmmakers coming out of Quebec. Pure cinema. Who knows what's in store for Imelda in the upcoming series' parts? She is very old, isolated as her acquaintances have pretty much all passed away. As I've mentioned earlier, she can be snooty, open, honest, and can take left of center psychological mood swings accompanied by harshness. Yet she is noble and stands her ground. Being so up there in age despite shortcomings, especially with keeping enemies... what is God's plan for her? What is her purpose on Earth? She can get people to speak their minds... during times of conflict or camaraderie. She's been around for quite a while. She's likely seen it all and chuckles over life's absurdities. I am joyfully excited to see the rest of the story unfold, and intrigued to see more. Martin Villeneuve's work, his mix of poetic philosophical and clinical writing skill drive his stories in a weaving pace and pattern, and his sociological prodding is reminiscent of the 1970s period of Ingmar Bergman's films here. Where conflict - especially brooding taking place instead of what should be a loving bond with family - becomes a tough challenge. The Imelda series is loveable, complex, yet digestible for audience members from all walks of life.
Review by Roman Sokal.
Review by Roman Sokal.