Player.se

Sous-Sol (2004)

Anonymous crowds tramp through the corridors of the Paris metro. As the camera observes the tumult of busy figures, all notion of identity is lost. Then it comes to rest on the lined, lonely face of a homeless man, holding his gaze to feel his distress. Avoiding a tone of pity or indulgence, this documentary paints a respectful, humanist portrait of a man on the streets. The film unfolds in the first person, through the character’s inner monologue, like an intimate self-portrait. The face of Jean-Philippe bears witness to the wounds of failure and the uncertainty of the next meal. But for a few moments, it becomes iconic, as black-and-white photographs invite viewers to look at him differently. We are no longer surprised, in these still images, to catch a glimpse of a smile that holds the promise of trust.