Nejma is determined to win the Camargue race amid unsettling rumors of a wild beast in the area. “Animale,” directed by Emma Benestan, merges female-driven western elements with fantasy, premiering at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Benestan aims to challenge gender norms within genres, emphasizing emotional storytelling. She views genre as a metaphor for reality, allowing her to explore complex societal issues. “Animale” promises a sensory experience reflecting Nejma’s journey and will be released in theaters on November 27, 2024.
Overview of Animale
Nejma is on a relentless quest to fulfill her dream of triumphing in the upcoming Camargue race, a thrilling event featuring fierce bull challenges in an arena. As the competition heats up, unsettling reports of mysterious disappearances begin to circulate among the townsfolk, sparking rumors of a lurking wild beast.
Animale stands out as a unique cinematic experience, blending elements of a female-driven western with a touch of fantasy. This innovative approach is showcased in the second feature film by director Emma Benestan, which premiered at the Critics’ Week during the prestigious 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Set against the backdrop of bullfighting, specifically the captivating Camargue race, this film offers a fresh perspective on traditional storytelling.
Emma Benestan’s Vision
In an engaging discussion with her lead actress Oulaya Amamra, Emma Benestan shared her inspiration for redefining the western genre. She expressed, ‘I believe we all want to share emotions with an audience and evoke feelings of fear or joy, reminiscent of our childhood. My work often reflects on gender dynamics – where do masculinity and femininity fit within these genres? Rom-coms typically highlight female protagonists, while westerns lack female representation. I find it fascinating to challenge these norms and reshape the genre to explore these themes.‘
Further elaborating in the film’s press kit, Benestan stated, ‘Genre serves as a metaphor for the imaginary, and expanding it brings us closer to reality. I believe genres, whether comedy or horror, act as a popular medium for conveying complex messages. I never intended for Animale to be confined to just one genre.‘
Benestan continued, ‘I was fortunate to collaborate with producers who allowed me the freedom to explore various genres. The film is a hybrid, similar to the films that resonate with me, like Get Out and It Follows, which tackle profound societal issues while breaking away from traditional frameworks. Horror, in particular, should provoke thought and discomfort rather than rely on shock value.‘
With its ambitious storytelling and sensory exploration, Animale invites viewers into a world that evolves alongside its protagonist. ‘We aimed for a sensory experience that transforms throughout the film, capturing the essence of nature that envelops Nejma’s journey.‘
Mark your calendars: Animale by Emma Benestan will grace theaters on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Interviews conducted at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival