Time Out (2001)
Review by Dindrane
Film:
DVD:

Written by Robin Campillo and Laurent Cantet
Directed by Laurent Cantet
Starring Aurélien Recoing, Karin Viard, Nicolas Kalsch, Serge Livrozet, Monique Mangeot, Jean-Pierre Mangeot

Released by: Miramax
Region: 1
Rating: PG-13
Anamorphic: Yes

My Advice: Rent it.

Vincent (Recoing) has been fired from his job as a corporate consultant, but instead of telling has family and trying to find a new position, he continues to pretend that he is still employed, taking his cell phone with him on long drives, sneaking into office buildings to pretend to have an office, and generally observing the working world of which he is no longer a part.

The film is incredible in the way that Vincent’s obsession with keeping his secret and pretending to have a new job is initially merely sad and pathetic, but slowly becomes truly disturbing as the film progresses. We come to realize that there is something terribly wrong with not only Vincent, but with a world that does not allow people to find their place in that world, or which defines our "place" as merely our job. Are we not then, more than our jobs? Apparently not--we are only what we directly contribute financially. This mass marketed, assembly-line view of life is terrifying indeed and leaves us all needing some "time out." This film documents everyone’s individual struggle to find a niche in the world, a place in society where we fit, feel at home, and can contribute our individual gifts; but this struggle is much harder for some for myriad reasons, and the film ponders why it is should be hard for any of us.

The production values here are fine. The sound fades in and out just a wee bit, causing viewers to need to leave the whole film a bit louder, but it’s nearly not enough to notice. The colors are all bright and clear, with the lighting done supremely well to enhance mood and emotional tension. The pathos of the film is controlled wonderfully not only by the actors, but by the cinematographer, who is doing his job perfectly.

There are no features on this release, which is a shame. It would have been wonderful to have heard some psychologists, political theorists, or economists discussing the role of the individual in modern societies, or hear a theologian or sociologist remind us that we are not merely our jobs. As also, a commentary from the director and writers would have been welcome also--to get more information on the story they were trying to get across.

Overall, if you are at all disaffected with your culture or your job, then you will adore this film’s look at one man’s search for a place. On the other hand, if you are currently totally at home in your job, your family, and your general situation, then you absolutely should see this film as it will teach you to be grateful, even more than you may already be. Anyone who currently makes their home in the modern, cube-farm workplace will love the indictment of such bourgeois, consumer-related valuations of worth. This is a must-see film for anyone struggling to balance a spiritually full life within a capitalistic, production-driven society.