Cast
View AllThomas Blumenthal
as Dan
Alice Isaaz
as Kelly
Jean-Baptiste Lafarge
as Louis
Karim Ait M'Hand
as Jaffar
Marine Sainsily
as Eulalie
Marianne Denicourt
as Mère de Louis
Bruno Abraham-Kremer
as Père de Dan
Xavier de Rosnay
as DJ World is Mine Party
Gaspard Augé
as DJ World is Maine Party
Louis Brodinski
as DJ 90s Party
Mouloud Achour
as DJ Métro Party
Jonathan Cohen
as Frère de Dan
Pierre-Ange Le Pogam
as Le directeur
Carolina Jurczak
as Pasionaria
Azedine Kasri
as Maître de chant
Crew
Director
- Kim Chapiron
Writer
- Kim Chapiron
- Noé Debré
Producer
- Benjamin Elalouf
- Pierre-Ange Le Pogam
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Smart Ass examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Kim Chapiron brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Smart Ass took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Smart Ass shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Blind Chance, which focuses more on action than character development, Smart Ass offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Citizen Kane and Boykee explore similar territory, Smart Ass stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 2, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 30m