Jacky in the Kingdom of Women (2014)

Jacky in the Kingdom of Women Poster
Original Title: Jacky au royaume des filles

The film is set in a world, the Popular Democratic Republic of Bubunne, in which women hold the power and men are forced to wear veils and stay at home.

Introduction
The 2014 film "Jacky in the Kingdom of Women" is a French satirical funny directed by comedian Riad Sattouf. It is set in an imaginary land called the Democratic Republic of Bubunne where ladies remain in control while men, on the other hand, are veiled and demure. The plot focuses on the character Jacky (Vincent Lacoste), a young man who worships the Colonel (Anemone), the country's callous dictator and dreams of marrying her daughter, La Colonelle (Charlotte Gainsbourg).

Plot
In the dystopian matriarchal society of Bubunne, guys are thought about second-class residents who exist to serve the ladies in domestic and sexual capabilities. Jacky is a young man who, like various other males, longs to win the hand of La Colonelle, the daughter of the country's totalitarian female leader. Jacky's dreams take an amazing turn when the Colonel decides it is time for La Colonelle to pick a spouse, a process done by organizing a grand ball where the males are paraded for selection.

Characters
Jacky, the lead character, deals with his constantly void mother and invests the majority of his time fantasizing about La Colonelle. His character is innocent but also indomitable, constantly holding onto his improbable dream. La Colonelle, on the other hand, is a victim of her circumstances, torn in between satisfying her mother's expectations and discovering somebody she truly loves. Her character signifies the battle for flexibility in a society bound by overbearing norms.

Satirical Aspects
The film overturns gender expectations and stereotypes, providing a tongue-in-cheek satire on gender politics. The females, wearing military uniforms and toting guns, are unapologetically dominant while the males, decorated in long bathrobes and headscarves, are submissive. By reversing typical gender roles, Sattouf satirizes patriarchal societies, highlighting the ridiculousness of enforced gender hierarchies.

Political Undertones
"Jacky in the Kingdom of Women" records the absurdity of totalitarian regimes, utilizing dark humor to portray the ridiculousness and challenges such a routine provides. The female totalitarian's brutish behavior, arbitrary rules, and callous governance represent the political satire in the movie, discreetly critiquing dictatorial programs and the oppression they occur.

Critics' Reaction
The movie got combined reactions. On one hand, it was hailed for its vibrant satire on gender and politics while drawing criticism for its simple treatment of complex styles. The film's comedic elements and gender function turnaround made it rejuvenating and unique; nevertheless, some critics found the portrayal of the dictatorship and representations of gender a bit overstated and broad.

Conclusion
"Jacky in the Kingdom of Women" offers an intriguing point of view on gender dynamics, socio-political systems, and the meaning of freedom and identity under oppression. Through humor and satire, the film presents a thought-provoking commentary on the absurdities of gender functions and power characteristics in society, making it a distinctive piece of cinematic art. Despite its humorous veneer, the central message of the film - about gender standards and political repression - is presented strikingly, leaving a deep impression on audiences.

Top Cast

  • Vincent Lacoste (small)
    Vincent Lacoste
    Jacky
  • Charlotte Gainsbourg (small)
    Charlotte Gainsbourg
    La colonelle Bubunne XVII
  • Didier Bourdon (small)
    Didier Bourdon
    Brunu
  • Anémone (small)
    Anémone
    La générale Bubunne XVI
  • Valérie Bonneton (small)
    Valérie Bonneton
    La chérife
  • Michel Hazanavicius (small)
    Michel Hazanavicius
    Julin
  • Noémie Lvovsky (small)
    Noémie Lvovsky
    Tata
  • Laure Marsac (small)
    Laure Marsac
    Zanie
  • William Lebghil (small)
    William Lebghil
    Vergio
  • Anthony Sonigo (small)
    Anthony Sonigo
    Juto
  • India Hair (small)
    India Hair
    Corune