Zoo zéro (1979)

Film Overview
"Zoo Zéro" is a surreal French film that was released in 1979 by director Alain Fleischer. The movie is characterized by its distinct storytelling technique, mixing aspects of dream, funny, and drama. "Zoo Zéro" is a materialization of various non-traditional principles and methods that makes it both interesting and complex.

Plot Summary
The film centers on Eva, depicted by Julie Jézéquel, a young pianist who imagines ending up being a distinguished musician like her mother who she lost at a childhood. She wants to perform Shostakovich's Concerto, which is symbolic of her yearning to get in touch with her departed mother, who played the exact same music piece prior to her tragic death. The film's plot mainly focuses on her mission to accomplish this dream.

Her life takes an unusual turn when she satisfies Ezechiel aka "The Angel of Music", played by Michael Lonsdale, who provides her the incredible chance to live her dream. Regardless of his mysterious personality, Eva places her rely on him and ends up starting a surreal journey, that is rife with symbolic recommendations and odd occurrences.

Thematic Elements
"Zoo Zéro" explores themes of dreams, aspiration, identity, and the surreal world. The movie is consistently dominated by the theme of music and its transcendental power. It also delves into the lead character's internal disputes and her strength in conquering the challenges that come her method. The complex relationship between Eva and Ezechiel, stressing the dichotomy in between truth and the envisioned is also a recurring concept in the film.

Characters and Performances
Julie Jézéquel, as Eva, anchors the plot with an impressive efficiency. Her character is susceptible yet identified to achieve her dreams. She convincingly highlights the obsessions, fears and goals of her character. Michael Lonsdale's representation of the enigmatic "Angel of Music" is worthy of a special mention. His mysterious disposition includes a special layer to the film's story.

Visual Style and Cinematography
The film exhibits a specific individuality in its visual style. The cinematography is incredible, developing a heavenly environment that goes well with the surreal theme of the film. The visual images consists of dynamic colors, haunting landscapes, and dream-like sequences. Usage of mirrors, shadow and light function as symbolic recommendations in the movie.

Music
Ball game in "Zoo Zéro" plays an exceptionally important role. As the film carries a concept of music throughout, the accompanying soundtrack is essential. It primarily includes speculative and classical music, which not just contributes to the emotional strength of the movie however also develops a sense of eeriness, in line with the movie's surreal style.

Last Thoughts
"Zoo Zéro" is an unconventional movie that fully accepts its unique, avant-garde nature. It is a poignant vision of a young woman's quest for identity and recognition, drenched in surrealism. The movie is not for everyone, with plot complexities that can be challenging to figure out. However for those who appreciate unconventional cinema, it provides an intriguing and aesthetically jailing experience. The film's combined reviews might be due to its intricate narrative structure, surreal imagery and an unique approach to storytelling that borders on the edges of truth and fantasy.

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