‘The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou’ Review
Stars: Thomas Parigi, Edwige Blondiau, Lou Lampros, Jean-Louise Coulloc’h | Written by Lucas Delangle, Olivier Strauss | Directed by Lucas Delangle
Living high in the French Alps, the titular Jacky Caillou (Thomas Parigi) is introduced using his tape recorder to document everyday noises. After picking up the sounds of creaking stairs and a lawnmower, he notices whisperings. Before audiences can get creeped out by such noises, the source is revealed as the lead’s grandmother, Gisèle (Edwige Blondiau), at work.
A magnetizer-healer that is recognised by all the locals, Gisèle begins instructing her grandson by passing on her gift. This coincides with the arrival of Elsa (Lou Lampros), who travelled from the city to consult about her worsening condition, which is visualised in a growing stain. The woman’s struggle at opening herself up to the healing makes it difficult for Gisèle to work, yet Jacky is determined to help.
A difficult history is hinted at for the lead, as seen when his visit to his parent’s graves ends with him spitting on them. He was raised by his last family member, Gisèle, and they share a lovely relationship full of genuine care for one another. Parigi effectively captures the fears stemming from how lost he feels, as he refuses to play his music in public believing it is too personal. Jacky finds himself driven to try healing the woman he has fallen for, running after a miracle despite his grandmother’s warnings about not chasing such things.
Director Lucas Delangle takes his time with the pacing, as each moment feels deliberate while asking for the audience’s patience. The attention may waver courtesy of static instances, yet moments of promise shine through which carry such power. A standout instance includes an effective revelation, shown from Jacky’s window as reality saddeningly makes itself known through slow camera movements.
While the lead wishes to save Elsa from her worsening condition, he must realise that he cannot fix something which does not want to be fixed. His journey may not reach the point he wishes, yet the changing circumstances and lost love leads him to experience growth while discovering the purpose he lacked.
***½ 3.5/5
The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou is out now on digital from Dark Star Pictures.
