Watch L'Homme Blesse

L'Homme Blesse, also known as The Wounded Man, is a French drama film from 1983 directed by Patrice Chéreau. The movie tells the story of a young man named Henri, played by Jean-Hugues Anglade, and his intense relationship with an older man, played by Vittorio Mezzogiorno. Henri is an isolated and troubled teenager who lives with his parents in a wealthy suburb of Paris. His turbulent relationship with his mother and his father's authoritarianism have left him emotionally scarred and alienated. He spends his days cruising the city on his motorcycle and shoplifting. One day, he meets a man named Jean, played by Mezzogiorno, in a gay cruising spot in the Bois de Boulogne. Despite the age difference, the two men are drawn to each other and embark on a passionate affair.

The relationship between Henri and Jean is complex and intense. Jean is a quiet, reserved man who appears to be struggling with his own demons. He is aloof and enigmatic, which only intensifies Henri's infatuation with him. Henri becomes obsessed with Jean, following him everywhere and even breaking into his apartment to rummage through his belongings. As their relationship becomes more entangled, their past traumas are slowly revealed, and the power dynamics in their relationship begin to shift.

The acting in L'Homme Blesse is superb. Jean-Hugues Anglade is captivating in his portrayal of Henri, capturing the character's vulnerability, impulsiveness, and reckless behavior. Vittorio Mezzogiorno is equally impressive as Jean, conveying an air of mystery and inner turmoil that makes the character all the more intriguing. The supporting cast, including Roland Bertin as Henri's father, adds depth to the story and helps to flesh out the world in which these characters exist.

Patrice Chéreau's direction is masterful, creating a moody and atmospheric world that is both beautiful and disturbing. The film has a dreamlike quality that is at times surreal, with sequences that blur the line between reality and fantasy. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the urban landscapes of Paris with a gritty, realistic flair.

At its core, L'Homme Blesse is a character study of two damaged individuals struggling to find connection and meaning in their lives. The film is a raw and unflinching portrayal of desire, obsession, and the darker aspects of human sexuality. It is a haunting and powerful film that lingers in the mind long after the credits have rolled.

Overall, L'Homme Blesse is an exceptional piece of cinema that deserves to be better known. It is a challenging and thought-provoking film that will resonate with audiences who appreciate complex and nuanced storytelling. The film is a testament to the power of art to explore the complexities of the human experience and to challenge our assumptions about love, desire, and identity.