Aujourd'hui (2012)

A short film by Nicolas Saada.

Film Overview
"Aujourd'hui" or "Today" is a French 2012 drama film directed by Alain Gomis. Set in Senegal, the film adopts an uniquely creative and poetic technique to inform the story of a man called Satche, represented by Saul Williams, who is predestined to die at the end of the day. The film premiered at the 62nd Berlin International Film Festival and consequently won the Grand Jury Prize of World Dramatic Cinema at the Sundance Film Festival.

Plot Summary
The movie focuses on the character Satche, an American immigrant in Senegal. He awakens one day with the cooling understanding that it is his last day in the world. Although he does not appear to experience any obvious or immediate physical condition, this premonition of his death is unmistakably genuine. This transforms an ordinary day into a reflective journey through his life. Satche ambles throughout the town, taking in his last moments and satisfying individuals who have touched his life.

Characters and Performances
Saul Williams delivers an effective efficiency as Satche, bringing depth and subtlety to his character. Through his journey, he reconnects with his ex-lover Rama (Anisia Uzeyman), his parents, and his childhood friends. Each character includes a layer to Satche's profile and shows a various element of Senegalese culture and society. The efficiencies are moving, conveying profound emotions and evoking empathy in the audience.

Styles and Symbolism
"Aujourd'hui" is an easy story packed with importance and deeper meaning. The film encapsulates the inevitability of death and human death, and it encourages audiences to reflect on their function in life. The film uses the theme of death as a tool for analyzing life and introspecting its value. It unwinds the complexities of relationships, memories, and feelings, casting a brand-new light on the mundane elements of everyday life. Its extensive expedition of life and death has actually resonated with audiences globally.

Directorial Style and Cinematography
Alain Gomis takes a minimalist approach to storytelling in "Aujourd'hui". The movie is without normal significant plot twists, focusing rather on the internal emotional journey of Satche. The director employs long shots and sticking around scenes to convey the somber mood and sluggish pace of the day. The movie has an unique visual language, marked by its usage of desaturated colors and natural lighting, which contributes to its general melancholic and reflective environment.

Conclusion and Reception
Regardless of its somber facility, "Aujourd'hui" is not a dismal film; rather, it's an uplifting and philosophical reflection on life, death, and what it means to be present in each moment. The movie got important recognition for its thought-provoking narrative, remarkable efficiencies, and special visual design. It pushed the limits of cinematic storytelling and stood apart for its unconventional take on death and presence. In general, "Aujourd'hui" left an enduring mark in the world of movie theater by advising audiences to appreciate the charm in everyday minutes and the transient nature of life.

Top Cast

  • Bérénice Bejo (small)
    Bérénice Bejo
    Louise
  • Frederick Wiseman (small)
    Frederick Wiseman
    L'homme
  • Fred Epaud (small)
    Fred Epaud
    Le gardien
  • Anna Sigalevitch (small)
    Anna Sigalevitch
    La jeune fille
  • Kolia Abiteboul (small)
    Kolia Abiteboul
    Le fils de Louise
  • Axel Bry (small)
    Axel Bry
    Collègue
  • Jean-François Ragot
    Collègue
  • Mark Simpson
    Visiteur
  • Fabien Almakiewicz
  • Tanguy Apel-Muller
  • Eric Daviron