Directed by Dominik Moll
Starring Bastien Bouillon, Bouli Lanners and Theo Cholbi

There’s something that happens within me when I know I am about to watch yet another film containing violence against women. I feel a tightness in my body. I wonder if the film will make an important enough statement to make the telling of another story like this worthwhile?

I have to say that the message behind this suburban, every-day, policy procedural thriller made it all worthwhile.

A poignant portrayal of an untimely and gruesome death, La Nuit du 12 drives home the important message that we all play a role in the deaths of women in public spaces. A culture of objectification leads to dehumanisation; and the dehumanisation of an individual or group of individuals is what can make acts of senseless violence easier. Through either our actions or inaction, we contribute to this culture. This film aims to get you thinking.

The script is contemporary and intelligent, with many digs at some themes modern audiences will connect with. It highlights the reality that, as two characters describe it: ‘There is something seriously amiss in the relationship between men and women’.

Perfectly cast, Pauline Serieys deserves a special mention as the ‘best friend’ her performance was raw, real and truly special. Beautifully shot and masterfully scored, The Night of the 12^th opened in selected cinemas in Australia this week.

The Night of the 12th is showing in selected cinemas across Australia from October 13th.

Moviedoc thanks Potential Films for providing a screener link to watch and review this film.

Review by Jemma for Moviedoc

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