François Ozon's Glimpse into the Depths of Life

"The Double Helix Lover" begins with a sensational visual. The very first scene, which immediately shows the heroine's dramatic transformation and the intimate parts where life begins, symbolizes the film's secrets. From the opening to the very end, there is absolutely nothing superfluous in this film. This is where Ozon's brilliance is once again made clear. Every scene hides a clue to unraveling the mystery, making it impossible to let your guard down for even a moment. Perhaps it's better to say that the tension throughout the entire film doesn't allow for it, which conveys how exquisite this psychological thriller is. Whether all the mysteries are revealed by the end is another matter.



Chloé lives in Paris and is a 25-year-old single woman. She has been suffering from unexplained abdominal pain for a long time, but gynecological examinations reveal no abnormalities. She is referred to Paul Meyer, who suggests it might be a psychological issue. He is a psychoanalyst with a calm and warm demeanor, and as Chloé continues her sessions with Paul, she finds relief from her physical and emotional pain.

Drawn to each other naturally, the two dissolve their doctor-patient relationship and begin living together as partners. Just as Chloé settles into a stable life, she realizes that Paul is keeping something from her. Apparently, he has an identical twin brother named Louis. Chloé begins to harbor suspicions about Paul, who is desperately trying to hide this fact.

To uncover the truth, she approaches Louis, but despite their identical appearance, he is an arrogant and haughty man, the polar opposite of Paul. While despising Louis, Chloé finds herself drawn to him. Against her better judgment, Chloé deepens her illicit relationship with the twins, keeping it secret from them. What she ultimately discovers is a startling truth hidden within herself.



Ozon employs various directorial techniques, such as spiral staircases, mirrors, and perfect symmetry, to lay his traps. What awaits at the end is a sad twist. However, the complex emotion of being "deceived," which can arise from endings designed solely to trick the audience, is unlikely to be felt here.

The numerous tricks are merely a means to guide us into the depths of human psychology, the mystery of twins, and ultimately, the profound inner workings of femininity. In this, one can sense Ozon's characteristic refinement and his pride as a filmmaker. It is also noteworthy that the beautiful characters, stylish fashion, and flawless interiors all contribute to a seductive and mysterious worldview, forming a perfect part of its atmosphere.

The "double helix" in the Japanese title likely refers to the structure of DNA. Even with scientific advancements and the complete sequencing of the human genome, it remains impossible to decipher the crucial nuances of emotions, sensations, and instincts that arise within it. The mysteries of life, which science cannot fully explain, belong to the realm of the divine. This film, born from the acknowledgment of that fact, can be seen as Ozon's hymn to life.






★★★★☆
A sensual and suspenseful mystery orchestrated by director Ozon. Everything you see, from the fashion to the interiors, is alluringly beautiful. For those who wish to unravel the mystery, this is a film that warrants multiple viewings.

The Double Helix Lover
Directed and Screenplay by François Ozon
Based on "Lives of the Twins" by Joyce Carol Oates
Music by Philippe Rombi
Starring: Marine Vacth, Jérémie Renier, Jacqueline Bisset, Myriem Boyer, Dominique Reymond, and others
Original Title: L’amant Double / 2017 / France / 1 hour 47 minutes / Color / Scope / 5.1ch / Japanese Subtitles: Mina Matsuura
Distribution: Kino Films
R-18+
©2017 - MANDARIN PRODUCTION - FOZ - MARS FILMS - FILMS DISTRIBUTION - FRANCE 2 CINÉMA - SCOPE PICTURES / JEAN-CLAUDE MOIREAU
Now playing at Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho and other theaters nationwide!

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