Stars: Matthieu Amalric, Max Von Sydow
Directed by: Julian Schnabal
Reviewed by: Adam Mast, Zboneman.com
Grade: A-

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is one of those films that really defies description. It simply has to be seen in order to be truly appreciated. It's a small, independent picture with a great big heart, and after it was over, it really stuck with me.

Based on a true story, this intimate piece of work from director Julian Schnabel (Before Night Falls, Basquiat) delves into the life of Elle editor and fashion guru Jean-Dominique Bauby, a celebrated man who would be put to the ultimate test after suffering from a severe stroke at the age of 43. This tragic stroke would leave Bauby completely paralyzed save for his left eye. For those who've seen individuals who've suffered the same fate as Bauby's, you might be quick to suggest that there's nothing going on in the heads of these individuals. After seeing this film–based on a book written by Bauby himself – I assure you, you will have a new outlook on the subject.

How Schnabel and cinematographer Janusz Kaminski take the viewer and plunge him/her directly into the mind set of Bauby is the key to the film's overall success. The first fifteen minutes of this picture are a tour de force of virtuoso film making. It is so disconcerting and so realistic, it is a bit uncomfortable to sit through, but at the same time, it's CREATIVE and challenging in ways most pictures wouldn't dare to be.

What follows is an inspirational journey in which a man takes his own dire situation, one filled with heartache and pity, and transforms it into a poetic message of hope. As depressing as The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is, it is equally uplifting.

The performances are outstanding. Mathieu Amalric, who American Audiences may remember from Munich, is sensational as Bauby. For much of the film, we don't even physically see this man. We know who he his through his thoughts – thoughts spoken through effective voice over. When we do finally get a glimpse at what this once lively (and somewhat cocky) individual has become, it is a bit shocking. As a virtually motionless stroke patient, Amalric pulls off some truly powerful moments. Even when he is unable to move, we know exactly what he's going through simply by the expression in his left eye. This is heartbreaking stuff. Amalric is also given a chance to shine in a series of flashbacks that make up a sizable portion of the film. We get to see this vibrant man in his prime, and this provides a nice contrast to the hospital scenes. Either way this is just an amazing turn. Look no further than a scene between Bauby and his father (beautifully played by veteran Max Von Sydow). While the two aren't actually facing one another during this particular exchange – it's a telephone conversation - the scene still resonates with unrelenting power. It nearly moved me to tears.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is incredibly passionate in it's depiction of a man not only fighting the good fight, but coming to the realization of what's most important in life. It's a film about courage and staying strong in dark times. This is a stunning piece of work and the numerous Oscar nominations this exceptional film received, are well deserved.