Je Veux Voir (2008)

36% of critics liked it
(11 reviews)
34% of users liked it
(109 ratings)

The destruction wrought in Lebanon during the war of 2006 is seen through unexpected eyes in this fusion of drama and documentary from filmmakers Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige. The internationally famous French actress Catherine Deneuve (playing herself) is visiting Beirut and wants to see… More The destruction wrought in Lebanon during the war of 2006 is seen through unexpected eyes in this fusion of drama and documentary from filmmakers Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige. The internationally famous French actress Catherine Deneuve (playing herself) is visiting Beirut and wants to see the aftermath of the 2006 conflict first hand. Deneuve's driver, a loyal fan and fellow actor named Rabih Mroue, is more than willing to help, and together they spend the day exploring the city, from the city center through the village of Bint El Jbeil (which Mroue calls home) to the Israeli border. While Deneuve is protected by a bodyguard, the guided tour presents more danger than she expects, with fighter jets buzzing overhead and land band dotting a few side streets, as Mroue makes sure she witnesses both the beauty of Lebanon and the wreckage battles with Israel have left behind. Je Veux Voir was screened as part of the Un Certain Regard series at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: Unrated, 1 hr. 15 min.
Directed By: Joana Hadjithomas, Khalil Joreige
Genres: Art House & International, Drama

In Theaters: May 17, 2008 Wide
Studio: Abbout Productions

Critic Reviews

David Jenkins, Time Out
There's no denying that this is a single-note film, but it's a note of considerable emotional clout.
Jon Fortgang, Film4
An unconventional yet haunting documentary that shines a strange new light on life in modern Lebanon.
Wendy Ide, Times [UK]
Not quite a documentary, nor yet entirely fiction, Je Veux Voir is an awkward blend. But it's not nearly as awkward as Catherine Deneuve in the central role.
Peter Bradshaw, Guardian [UK]
A potent and intriguing cinema of ideas.
Tim Robey, Daily Telegraph
The line between worthy and pompous is a tightrope right the way through, and the filmmakers don't have the shoes for it.
Rob Daniel, Sky Movies
Whatever the meaning, or lack of meaning, occasionally powerful images sock you between the eyes.
Tom Dawson, Total Film
The images lack historical context, Deneuve seems ill-at-ease throughout and the film overall suffers in comparison with last year's Lebanon-set Under The Bombs.
Matt Bielby, Filmstar Magazine
It sounds like nothing happens, and it doesn't, and the strange what's-real-and-what's-planned? atmosphere can annoy somewhat.
Nigel Andrews, Financial Times
The idea is misconceived, the execution gets closer and closer to the danger zone of embarrassment.
Robert Hanks, Independent
Sincere and nicely shot, but unengaging.
Matthew Turner, ViewLondon
An occasionally flawed but frequently rewarding film that paints an intriguing portrait of war-torn Lebanon.

Read all 11 critic reviews

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