Time destroys everything.|May. 22, 2002|France|93 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Adult;Crime;Drama;Mystery;Thriller
Description: “Irréversible” is a 2002 French psychological thriller drama written and directed by Gaspar Noé. The film stars Monica Bellucci, Vincent Cassel, and Albert Dupontel. Known for its use of reverse chronology, the story follows two men as they navigate the streets of Paris in a quest to avenge the brutal rape of their girlfriend. The soundtrack, largely composed by Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk, adds a unique atmosphere to the film.
“Irréversible” competed for the Palme d’Or at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival and won the Bronze Horse at the Stockholm International Film Festival. It has been associated with the “cinéma du corps” movement, characterized by its intense subject matter, confrontational style, and sense of nihilism. The film is also considered part of the New French Extremity movement.
Upon its release, the film sparked controversy due to its graphic depictions of violence, including a long-take rape scene and a brutal murder, leading to accusations of homophobia. Renowned critic Roger Ebert described it as “a movie so violent and cruel that most people will find it unwatchable.”
The narrative begins with an Italian woman named Alex reading “An Experiment with Time” in a park, surrounded by children. The film concludes with a symbolic scene featuring Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, accompanied by a strobe effect and the phrase “Le Temps Detruit Tout” (“Time destroys everything”). This thematic element connects “Irréversible” to Noé’s subsequent film, “Enter the Void,” which also incorporates the same musical composition.
Cast director: Gaspar Noé
Cast actor: Monica Bellucci, Vincent Cassel, Albert Dupontel, Jo Prestia, Philippe Nahon, Stéphane Drouot, Jean-Louis Costes, Mourad Khima, Michel Gondoin, Hellal
Original name: Irréversible