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ðŠķ Story & Synopsis
“Close Enemies” is a gripping Belgian-French crime drama film directed by David Oelhoffen that delves into the intertwined lives of childhood friends who end up on opposite sides of the law. The story follows Driss and Manuel, who grew up together in the same disadvantaged suburb of Paris but eventually take divergent paths in life.
Driss chooses to pursue a career in law enforcement, while Manuel gets involved in a significant drug trafficking operation. When a major drug deal goes awry, their paths unexpectedly cross again, leading to a tense and complex reunion. The film explores how their survival becomes intertwined, forcing them to confront their shared past and the choices that led them down divergent roads.
Starring Matthias Schoenaerts as Manuel, known for his roles in “Red Sparrow” and “Rust and Bone,” and Reda Kateb as Driss, the film presents a gritty and dynamic narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. As the story unfolds, the audience is drawn into a high-stakes game of shifting allegiances, where trust is a rare commodity and loyalties are constantly tested.
With a runtime of 111 minutes, “Close Enemies” expertly weaves together elements of suspense, drama, and crime, offering a nuanced portrayal of friendship, betrayal, and the complex interplay between law enforcement and criminal underworld. The film’s intense narrative and top-notch performances make it a standout in the crime drama genre, leaving audiences captivated until the very end.
ð§ Cast & Crew
Matthias Schoenaerts, Reda Kateb, Adel Bencherif, Sofiane Zermani, Sabrina Ouazani, Gwendolyn Gourvenec, Nicolas Giraud, Yann Goven, Astrid Whettnall, Ahmed Benaissa, Marc BarbÃĐ
Actor | Role |
---|---|
Matthias Schoenaerts | Manuel |
Reda Kateb | Driss |
Adel Bencherif | Imrane Mogalia |
Sofiane Zermani | Fouad |
Sabrina Ouazani | Mounia |
Gwendolyn Gourvenec | Manon |
Nicolas Giraud | RÃĐmi Rufo |
Astrid Whettnall | The chief |
Marc BarbÃĐ | Marc |
RaphaÃŦl ThiÃĐry | Curro Reyes |
ðŽ Reviews and feedback
Hey there, movie buffs! Ready to dive into the gritty world of crime dramas with a buddy-turned-foe twist? Well, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we delve into the world of Close Enemies.
Imagine this: You’re at a party, and someone offers you a classic dish. It’s well-prepared, seasoned just right, but somehow, you can’t shake off the feeling that you’ve tasted it before. That’s Close Enemies for you – a consummately crafted crime drama that hits all the right notes but fails to bring a new flavor to the table.
The plot revolves around Manuel, a drug dealer who reluctantly joins forces with his childhood friend turned cop, Driss, to seek revenge after an ambush claims the life of Manuel’s partner. The dynamic between the two leads, portrayed by Matthias Schoenaerts and Reda Kateb, is intense and palpable throughout the film.
Themes and Tone:
- Sliding Morality: Close Enemies delves into the murky waters of morality, blurring the lines between right and wrong as characters navigate through their choices.
- Betrayal and Loyalty: The film explores themes of betrayal and loyalty as friendships are tested in the face of adversity.
- Gritty Realism: Set against the backdrop of a drug deal gone wrong, the movie immerses viewers in a world filled with danger and deceit.
The tone is punchy and seductive, drawing viewers into a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps them on the edge of their seats. The cinematography and score enhance this tension, creating a sense of looming danger that lingers throughout.
Acting and Characters:
Schoenaerts and Kateb deliver stellar performances that breathe life into their respective characters. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to their complicated relationship, making every interaction crackle with intensity. Adel Bencherif and Sofiane Zermani also shine in their supporting roles, adding layers to an already complex narrative.
Direction and Production:
David Oelhoffen’s direction shines in capturing the grittiness of the crime genre while infusing it with his unique vision. The production design transports viewers to the seedy underbelly of Paris, enhancing the authenticity of the story.
Cinematography and Score:
The cinematography in Close Enemies deserves special mention for its ability to create a sense of intimacy within chaotic scenes. Each frame is carefully crafted to heighten emotions and draw viewers deeper into the narrative. The score complements this visual storytelling perfectly, adding layers of tension and drama to pivotal moments.
Binge-Watching Tips:
- If you’re a fan of intense crime dramas with complex character dynamics, Close Enemies is worth adding to your watchlist.
- To fully appreciate the nuanced performances by Schoenaerts and Kateb, pay attention to their subtle gestures and expressions throughout the film.
In conclusion, Close Enemies, while treading familiar ground in terms of storyline, offers an engaging viewing experience fueled by strong performances and atmospheric direction. It may not reinvent the wheel in terms of crime dramas but manages to keep audiences invested until its gripping conclusion.
Rating: 7/10
So there you have it – a glimpse into the world of Close Enemies. Whether you choose to stream or skip this French drama on Netflix ultimately depends on your appetite for familiar yet well-crafted narratives in the crime genre. Until next time, happy watching!
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Well-crafted | Predictable |
Committed performances | Derivative storyline |
Top-tier genre yarn | Kind of boring |
Entertaining | Too familiar crime drama |
Seductively shot and scored | Doesn’t make a significant impact |
Feedback
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Close Enemies (film) - Wikipedia
Close Enemies(film)
Close Enemies Directed by David Oelhoffen Written by David Oelhoffen Starring Matthias Schoenaerts Distributed by Bac Films Release dates
- 1 September 2018Venice) (
- 3 October 2018 (Belgium)
- 3 October 2018 (France)
Running time
111 minutes Countries Belgium France
Language French Box office $ 1.3 million Close Enemies(French:
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Close Enemies (2018) - IMDb
- Awards
- 1 nomination
- Raji
- (as Ahmed Benaissa)
Did you know
- TriviaIt was by talking with major drug dealers, whom he met with one of his friend lawyer, that David Oelhoffen was able to put his script on his feet.
- anthonypvieira
- Jan 10, 2022
- How long is Close Enemies?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Release date
- Countries of origin
- Official site
- Languages
- Also known as
- DÞÅman KardeÅler
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Gross worldwide
- $1,290,258
- Runtime1 hour 51 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.35 : 1
- Awards
-
Close Enemies Ending, Explained | Netflix Plot Summary - The Cinemaholic
There is a long-standing tradition of filmmakers from all over the world who try their hand at showcasing intense crime sagas in a myriad of ways. âClose Enemiesâ is yet another interpretation of the crime drama genre that seems quite familiar but it entertaining nonetheless. Instead of staying loyal only to the quintessential elements of the genre, âClose Enemiesâ instills themes related to oneâs social identity and further reflects this onto the actions of its characters.
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Close Enemies (Freres Ennemis) (2018) | Rotten Tomatoes
58% Tomatometer 12 Reviews 52% Audience Score Fewer than 50 Ratings Read More Read Less
Critics Consensus
WhileClose Enemiesis a perfectly well-produced film noir, it is too predictable and derivative to make an impact.Read Critics Reviews
â ïļ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the crime drama “Close Enemies,” the story revolves around the intertwined lives of Manuel, a drug trafficker, and Driss, a cop, whose paths cross due to a failed drug deal. The film delves into themes of social identity and loyalty, showcasing how the choices made by the characters lead to a tragic conclusion.
The plot kicks off with the murder of Imrane, a key figure in the drug trafficking world who is betrayed by his own boss, Raji. Driss, being a childhood friend of both Imrane and Manuel, gets involved in the investigation to find Imrane’s killer. Through his inquiries, it is revealed that Raji orchestrated the hit on Imrane to protect his drug business from being exposed.
As the story progresses, Driss’s character is further explored, highlighting his internal struggles and the societal pressures he faces as an Arab cop in a world that expects him to conform to stereotypes. Despite being ostracized by his own community, Driss remains committed to upholding justice and protecting those close to him.
The climax of the film, titled “A Lesser Evil,” showcases the complexities of the characters’ moral dilemmas and the sacrifices they make in a world rife with betrayal and deception. Driss’s attempts to navigate the treacherous landscape of crime and loyalty ultimately lead to a bittersweet resolution that challenges the audience’s perceptions of right and wrong.
ðŠ Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
The movie “Close Enemies” is recommended for viewers aged 16 and above.
Parental Guide:
Sex & Nudity:
The movie contains minimal sexual content, with no explicit scenes of nudity.
Violence & Gore:
“Close Enemies” includes intense scenes of violence, including shootings, a drive-by ambush resulting in deaths, and characters being pressured by crime bosses. There are depictions of blood and injuries throughout the film.
Profanity:
The movie features moderate to strong language, including profanity and harsh dialogue used by the characters.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:
There are scenes depicting drug deals and drug use, as well as references to criminal activities related to narcotics.
Frightening & Intense Scenes:
The film contains suspenseful and intense moments, especially during the violent confrontations and the characters’ dilemmas involving loyalty and survival.
ðš Streaming and where to watch
streaming service | extra information |
---|---|
Netflix | Close Enemies is available to watch on Netflix. After an ambush leaves his partner dead, drug dealer Manuel reluctantly teams up with childhood friend Driss — now a cop — to hunt down the culprits. |
Netflix | Close Enemies is available to watch on Netflix. After an ambush leaves his partner dead, drug dealer Manuel reluctantly teams up with childhood friend Driss — now a cop — to hunt down the culprits. Movie Maturity Rating: 16+. Runtime: 1h 51m. |
â Quotes and Cult
If you don't have enemies, you don't have character.
The greatest enemy will hide in the last place you would ever look.
My enemy's enemy is a friend.
ðĪClose Enemies Reddit Talks
Close Enemies (2018)
The French film, Close Enemies, directed by David Oelhoffen, follows the story of Driss and Manuel, two childhood friends who find themselves on opposite sides of the law. Driss becomes a police officer, while Manuel becomes a criminal. The film explores the complex relationship between the two men, as well as the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.
Plot Summary
Driss and Manuel grew up together in a poor neighborhood in Paris. As children, they were inseparable, but as they grew older, their paths diverged. Driss became a police officer, while Manuel became involved in crime.
One day, Manuel is arrested by Driss. Driss is torn between his duty as a police officer and his loyalty to his childhood friend. He eventually decides to let Manuel go, but their relationship is forever changed.
Years later, Manuel is released from prison and tries to rebuild his life. He gets a job and starts a family. However, his past continues to haunt him, and he is drawn back into a life of crime.
Driss is now a high-ranking police officer. He is determined to bring Manuel to justice, but he is also aware of the consequences that this will have on their friendship.
Themes
- Loyalty – The film explores the theme of loyalty through the relationship between Driss and Manuel. Despite their different paths in life, they remain loyal to each other.
- Betrayal – The film also explores the theme of betrayal. Driss betrays Manuel by arresting him, and Manuel betrays Driss by returning to a life of crime.
- Redemption – The film also explores the theme of redemption. Manuel tries to rebuild his life after prison, but his past continues to haunt him.
Critical Reception
Close Enemies received positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its strong performances, its suspenseful plot, and its exploration of complex themes.
Audience Reception
Audiences also responded positively to Close Enemies. The film has a 7.5/10 rating on IMDb and an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Overall
Close Enemies is a well-made and thought-provoking film that explores complex themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. The film is anchored by strong performances from Matthias Schoenaerts and Reda Kateb.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/231rfw/for_anyone_who_watched_the_movie_enemy_and_was/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/77yldv/is_close_encounters_really_as_great_as_everyone/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/1tciaw/my_friend_wrote_a_script_for_a_serious/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/mr4dtt/the_most_disgusting_scary_film_is_enemy_2013/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/MovieSuggestions/comments/1543is4/acclaimed_movies_where_best_friends_face_off/
â Frequently Asked Questions
Is Close Enemies a good movie? Critics Reviews
Close Enemies is described as a consummately well-crafted and committed version of a story we’ve seen play out numerous times before. It is praised as a top-tier genre yarn with punchy entertainment value and captivating cinematography and score.
What is the movie Close Enemies on Netflix about?
In Close Enemies, after an ambush results in his partner’s death, drug dealer Manuel reluctantly teams up with childhood friend Driss, now a cop, to seek out the culprits. This gritty drama stars Matthias Schoenaerts and Reda Kateb and was nominated for a Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.
What movie involves friends becoming enemies?
Here are 10 best movies where friends become enemies, in ranked order:
- Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
- Get Out (2017)
- Captain America: Civil War
- Spider-Man 3 (2007)
- X-Men: First Class (2011)
- Creed III (2023)
- Mean Girls (2004)
- The Social Network (2010)
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Wallpapers & Media
ðĨ Audience Trends
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