Angel-A

Synopsis

In Angel-A, directed by Luc Besson, we follow the story of André, a small-time con artist played by Jamel Debbouze, who finds himself in a desperate situation and on the brink of a breakdown. Living in the underbelly of Paris, André's life hits rock bottom when debt collectors pursue him relentlessly. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious and striking woman named Angel-A, portrayed by Rie Rasmussen. As she helps him confront his fears and insecurities, the duo embarks on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. The film combines romance and surrealism as it explores themes of redemption, personal growth, and the complexities of human connections, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the City of Lights. Besson's unique storytelling and striking visuals offer an engaging experience that challenges the audience's perceptions of love and life, making 'Angel-A' both a thought-provoking and visually stunning cinematic adventure.

Cast

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  Jamel Debbouze

  André

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  Rie Rasmussen

  Angel-A

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  Gilbert Melki

  Franck

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  Serge Riaboukine

  Pedro

• 

  Akim Chir

  Le chef des malfrats

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  Laurent Jumeaucourt

  Le dragueur

Reviews

Upon its release in 2005, Angel-A garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. According to IMDb, the film has a rating of 7.0, indicating a fairly positive reception from viewers. However, critics were less enthusiastic, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it a score of 46%, suggesting that while some viewers appreciated its visuals, many felt the execution fell short. Metacritic rated the film at 48/100, reflecting an average reception. The Guardian noted that 'the film has a captivating opening,' but criticized its narrative structure for lacking depth, while Variety praised Besson's direction, stating that 'his visual flair shines through, capturing the essence of Paris beautifully.' Some critics found the character dynamics intriguing, with one review highlighting that Jamel Debbouze's performance 'brings a certain charm and depth to the concrete and existential struggles of his character.' However, others felt that the film's philosophical elements were somewhat superficial, with The Metro commenting that the dialogue 'tries hard but often misses the mark.' Overall, 'Angel-A' offers a visual feast and showcases some commendable performances, but its narrative continuity and emotional depth received mixed feedback.