07/09/2002 - Enchanted by Michel Delville's "almost peaceful world". This film, presented in competition today, portrays Man's never-ending ability to start over again

«This was a terrible time in our history, and many people felt they had to stand aside, without however forgetting the power of what they were feeling or the determination they would need to build a better future». Michel Delville’s latest film Un monde presque paisible (An almost peaceful world) is in competition in Venice 59. Although his voice is calm, the subject of this film is clearly very close to Mr Delville’s heart. But a cool head and a warm heart were what was needed for the filmmaker to do justice to this story about a group of nine Jewish survivors of World War II who find themselves in Paris. They try to distance themselves from the unspeakable memories by creating a new and almost totally serene world for themselves as they gather for work every morning in M. Albert’s tailor shop. They bring with them the horrific memories but in spite of everything they have seen, these people remain convinced that a better life is possible. So they talk, fight, make love and peace never forget to smile. Ever. Their determination to rebuild their lives never wavers.
« I believe in enchantment, intuition and unexpected encounters, » said the French director. « I also believe in working on our words and actions because that allows us to be both profound and superficial at the same time. That was the only way to make a film like this one. » Like Robert Bober’s book that inspired this film, Quoi de neuf sur la guerre” Michel Delville’s filmmaking style is restrained and always respectful of the protagonists as they climb out of the darkness that engulfed them with quiet dignity and indomitable energy. « The atmosphere on the set was one of great emotion and involvement. More often than not, the first take was the best, » said Delville. « This was a journey into the unexpected and the tears that the actors cry in this film are all real. »

(Translated from Italian)