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Europe’s New Faces review

A four-hour documentary observes life in a Paris squat and perilous Mediterranean crossings – but its non-narrative structure tests the limits of endurance and empathy

Europe’s New Faces review

TL;DR

  • The documentary observes immigrants in a Paris squat and their Mediterranean crossings.
  • It is divided into two parts: life in the squat and the sea journey.
  • The film employs a non-narrative structure with long static shots and still images.
  • A musical score by Bertrand Bonello accompanies the raw, unexplained visuals.
  • The lack of narrative structure is noted as an impediment to empathy.
  • A brief moment of joy is depicted with a woman dancing to Oumou Sangaré's music.