#TIFF19: “DEERSKIN”

Review by David Baldwin for Mr. Will Wong

Georges’ (Oscar-winner Jean Dujardin) life is in upheaval. He separated from his wife and has just spent a comically ridiculous amount of money for a deerskin coat. He loves and admires the coat – so much so that he starts talking to it, and slowly becomes unhinged from reality.

If you watched Writer/Director Quentin Dupieux’s previous film Rubber – about a tire that kills people – you probably have an idea for what kind of trip you are in for with Deerskin. The Film is part narrative, part experimental avant garde piece on identity and mental illness. It is delightfully absurd right from the start, setting the tone immediately but never letting on what direction it is moving in next. It is a bit of a slow-burn at first and seems determined to test the audience’s patience. But once Dupieux unpacks all of his wacky ideas, all bets are off and you will not be able to look away. And in the middle of everything is Dujardin, who goes all in with his positively bonkers performance. He is keenly aware of how outrageous the Film is, and plays into each moment recklessly and fearlessly.

Just make sure you leave your coat at home when you see it. You can thank me later.

DEERSKIN screens during TIFF at the following times:

Thursday September 12, 9:00pm @ Ryerson Theatre
Friday, September 13 @ 9:15pm @ Scotiabank Theatre
Sunday September 15, 6:30pm@ Scotiabank Theatre