Plot Synopsis

‘Criminal Lovers’ thrusts us into a world of suspense and treachery from the very beginning. The movie opens with a chilling murder scene, setting the stage for a gripping narrative. High school student Alice, portrayed by the talented Natacha Régnier, manipulates her lover, Luc, played by Jérémie Renier, into committing the heinous act of assassinating their classmate, Saïd, brought to life by Salim Kechiouche.

As the duo flees the scene of the crime, they steal Luc’s parents’ car and embark on a journey that leads them to an unexpected encounter with a mysterious forest dweller, portrayed by Miki Manojlovic. Their fates take an even stranger turn when this enigmatic figure locks the lovers in his hidden cabin deep within the woods.

The film is a labyrinth of emotions, a narrative puzzle that unravels the events that led to the gruesome murder and the ordeals that Alice and Luc endure while trapped in the forest dweller’s basement. In its darkest moments, ‘Criminal Lovers’ draws parallels to the unsettling atmosphere of Grimm’s “Hansel and Gretel,” all while retaining François Ozon’s distinctive style and storytelling finesse.

The Enigmatic Allure

What makes ‘Criminal Lovers’ truly mesmerizing is its ability to captivate the audience through its complex characters and intricate plot. Ozon skillfully navigates the shifting emotional landscapes of the characters, leaving viewers both disturbed and utterly captivated. The film delves into the depths of human nature, showcasing the conflict and contradiction within us all.

The subdued yet stylish photography and the forest setting lend an eerie, fairy-tale quality to the film, echoing the haunting world of “Hansel and Gretel.” This juxtaposition of the familiar with the unknown adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.

A Dark Adult Fairy Tale

Beneath its exterior, ‘Criminal Lovers’ is an adult fairy tale with a thought-provoking undercurrent. Ozon invites viewers to explore the depths of human desires, dark obsessions, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The film weaves a tale that challenges conventional morality, leaving us with more questions than answers.

We invite you to experience the enigmatic world of ‘Criminal Lovers’ by François Ozon. For those seeking a dark and thought-provoking cinematic journey, this film is a must-watch. You can watch ‘Criminal Lovers’ online here on our website by clicking on one of the blue buttons available on this page and indulge in this mesmerizing masterpiece that combines the allure of a dark fairy tale with the complexity of adult themes. Discover the enigma for yourself and let François Ozon’s storytelling prowess take you on a gripping journey through the depths of human emotions and desires.