Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
Peter von Kant is a gay retelling of Fassbinder’s film The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant. Peter von Kant stars Denis Ménochet as Peter von Kant, a renowned film director; Khalil Ben Gharbia as Amir, Peter’s love interest; and Stéfan Crépon as Karl, Peter’s assistant.
The film opens in Cologne (Köln) in 1972. Peter barks orders at Karl, who lovingly and diligently works to meet his needs. The relationship is cemented very early, with Karl looking lovingly at Peter as Peter treats him with disrespect.
When his best friend Sidonie (Isabelle Adjani) arrives with Amir, Peter is infatuated with Amir’s youth and beauty. Peter quickly invites Amir to return the following day, which he does. He wines and dines Amir, asks him to move in and promises to make him a star, which he does over the course of a year. And once Amir settles in and gets what he wants, he starts acting like a spoiled brat. And the more petulant Amir behaves, the more Peter works to meet his needs.
Once Amir has success, he moves on, leaving Peter to agonize over the loss. Karl continues to lovingly work for him, meeting his needs and being quickly dismissed. Peter’s drinking spirals out of control as he laments the loss of Amir until the film comes to a dramatic conclusion.
Some Thoughts:
Peter von Kant is a beautiful film full of vibrant colors and stunning performances. Although the character of Karl has very few words, Crépon brings him to life using movement and pure emotion. It’s a stunningly captivating performance. His unrequited love for Peter is palpable, as is the degradation.
The banter between Peter and Sidonie is delivered with an intimacy only two people who have been friends for years would have. Sidonie also starred in Peter’s first film, so they have a shared personal and working relationship. The glances, delivery of lines, and movements all define who they are to each other.
The chemistry between Ménochet and Gharbia is electrifying. When Amir tells Peter about having to grow up quickly after the death of his parents, his emotions ring true. It’s easy to see how Peter is drawn into his suffering as well, finding beauty in the pain. It isn’t until Amir becomes a successful actor that the true nature of that evening comes into question.
Director François Ozon has an eye for visuals. Every scene is set up for optimal effect. There is nothing in Peter von Kant that doesn’t draw your eye and attention. The film is stunning.
The Final Verdict:
Peter von Kant is a beautiful, thought provoking, and highly entertaining film. Even if you have not seen the movie it’s based on (The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant), you will enjoy it. You may want to see Peter von Kant with friends, there’s plenty to discuss afterwords.