Exploring Themes of Violence and Friendship in “Death Does Not Exist”

In his fourth feature film, “Death Does Not Exist (La mort n’existe pas),”Canadian animator Felix Dufour-Laperrière crafts a compelling narrative that revolves around two protagonists, Helene and Manon, who find themselves entangled in a Faustian bargain.

The Quest for Radical Change

Believing that genuine transformation necessitates extreme measures, Helene and Manon, alongside their comrades, initiate a violent assault on affluent landowners residing in an opulent villa. However, the endeavor spirals out of control as Helene falters. Following her escape, she enters a surreal valley teeming with shifting colors and underlying tension, only to be confronted by the haunting presence of Manon.

Diving Deep into Complex Themes

As the narrative unfolds through a blend of dialogues and monologues, Helene and Manon navigate the aftermath of the chaos they’ve caused. Their poignant discussions delve into the intricacies of violence, love, and commitment, reflecting on how even the most tragic events can yield unexpected awakenings.

“Life. It’s movement,” Manon asserts during a critical moment in their journey. “And movement has a cost, inevitably. It’s hard. Save your skin, or dirty your hands. And maybe change things. Or save what you love. It’s true, it’s hard. But crying like a baby doesn’t change anything. You have to choose. What are you loyal to? To whom?”

World Premiere at Cannes

As “Death Does Not Exist“prepares for its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, shortly followed by a screening at Annecy, Dufour-Laperrière articulates his aims for the film. He sought to intertwine the narrative of a tragic friendship with the repercussions of a failed terrorist act. “They confront the inherent unpredictability of violence,” he explains. “It spirals beyond your control, yet they live in a world steeped in that reality.”

A Tragic Dilemma

In a pivotal moment that underscores the film’s tension, Manon offers Helene a chance to return to the landowners’ villa and complete their original mission. Dufour-Laperrière describes this as a “tragic choice” where Helene must evaluate her loyalty and convictions while risking everything.

Historical Influences

The film also draws inspiration from a turbulent chapter in Canadian history—the October Crisis of 1970. During this period, the Front de Libération du Québec (FLQ) orchestrated kidnappings of prominent politicians in their struggle for Quebec’s independence, prompting the Canadian government to invoke the War Measures Act.

Artistic Vision and Animation Style

Dufour-Laperrière likens the intertwining of the October Crisis with a fantasy element, akin to “Alice in Wonderland,”highlighting how the FLQ employed violence as a means to achieve political objectives. His choice of a minimalist animation style, characterized by abstract visuals and overlapping soundscapes, serves to better convey the film’s tumultuous themes.

Furthermore, the director’s unique use of color illustrates characters through subtly intricate details, suggesting a close relationship between characters and their environments. “They are part of the context, and the context is part of them,” he reveals, emphasizing the artistic freedom he embraced in creating the film.

Anticipation for Cannes

With “Death Does Not Exist“making its debut at Cannes, Dufour-Laperrière shares his enthusiasm: “It’s a genuine joy to present an adult animated feature in such an esteemed cinematic environment. The excitement outweighs the stress,” he states, underscoring the significance of this opportunity.

Voice Cast and Distribution

The film features a talented voice cast, including Zeneb Blanchet, Karelle Tremblay, Mattis Savard-Verhoeven, Barbara Ulrich, and Irene Dufour. Distribution is handled by UFO, BFF, and Maison 4:3.

For further details, you can check the Hollywood Reporter.