Survive

Synopsis

Survive (2024) is a gripping French drama directed by Jean-Baptiste Andrea, featuring a compelling performance by Émilie Dequenne. The story follows a young woman fighting to reclaim her life and identity after enduring abduction and captivity. The film delves deep into themes of trauma, resilience, and the complexities of recovery, portraying the psychological and emotional toll of survival. Émilie Dequenne’s nuanced portrayal brings authenticity and vulnerability to the character’s harrowing journey, making the film a poignant exploration of human strength and hope amidst despair. Set against a stark, intense backdrop, Survive presents a raw, unflinching look at the aftermath of trauma.

Cast

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  Émilie Dequenne

  Julia

• 

  Andreas Pietschmann

  Tom

• 

  Lisa Delamar

  Cassie

• 

  Lucas Ebel

  Ben

• 

  Arben Bajraktaraj

  L'homme au harpon

• 

  Olivier Ho Hio Hen

  Nao

Reviews

Survive has received a mixed reception from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a fairly positive 73% approval rating, highlighting the film's powerful emotional core and Dequenne's standout performance. Critics have praised the movie for its sensitive handling of difficult subject matter and the intimate focus on the protagonist's psychological struggles. For example, The Guardian emphasized the "haunting realism and emotional depth" of the story. However, some reviews pointed out pacing issues and a narrative that sometimes feels overly familiar within the trauma genre. IMDb users gave Survive a modest 4.6/10, reflecting a divide between appreciation for its intentions and disappointment in its execution. Metacritic scores also mirror this split, with some critics complimenting the direction and acting but noting that the film may resonate more with niche audiences rather than mainstream viewers. Overall, Survive is recognized as a serious and thought-provoking drama that may challenge viewers but offers compelling performances and an important message.