The promise of a French social satire addressing French xenophobia and the global refugee crisis might not seem like a story that would attract a large audience.
However, when you consider that Meet the Barbarians (Les Barbares in French) is directed by Julie Delpy, a well-known figure in French cinema and co-star of Richard Linklater’s Before trilogy, more people might find it interesting.
Set in a beautiful small town in Brittany, France, this story about life in Paimpont brings gentle humor, a bit of romance, and plenty of political commentary.
What Is ‘Meet the Barbarians’ About?
The quiet town of Paimpont seems far removed from the troubles of the outside world, but things change when the local schoolteacher, Joëlle (played by Julie Delpy), along with the town’s Mayor (Jean-Charles Clichet), plans to welcome Ukrainian refugees to their community.
They proudly raise the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag with help from other townspeople like Anne (Sandrine Kiberlain), a shopkeeper and longtime friend of Joëlle, and Hervé (Laurent Lafitte), a town councilor and plumber.
Hervé is of Alsatian origin but claims to be Breton with great enthusiasm, even though he had some doubts about the arrival of newcomers.
Before the Ukrainians arrive, they receive news that the Ukrainian families have been placed elsewhere in the country, and instead, they will be hosting a Syrian family.
The Syrian family, having faced a difficult journey and now anxious about adjusting to their new home, enters a community that is unsure about its initial generosity and willingness to welcome outsiders.
The strong performances by Ziad Barkri, Dalia Naous, and Rita Hayek add depth to this touching yet entertaining story of integration, acceptance, and overcoming ignorance.
Issues around culture, from food to faith and family, are shown in what is otherwise a light and easy-to-follow plot.
Julie Delpy Shines as Both Director and Actor
Julie Delpy, as always, is attractive in her role, playing the kind-hearted but often clueless teacher with charm and believability. This film feels like a family project, with Delpy’s father, Albert, portraying a quirky local farmer who, in another era, might have been a character in a John Ford film.
Mathieu Demy, son of famous filmmakers Jacques Demy and Agnès Varda, adds a brooding presence to the mix, while the rest of the cast feels authentic in this slightly exaggerated depiction of small-town life.
Delpy manages to poke fun at the narrow-mindedness of the town’s residents while also recognizing the passionate, but sometimes misguided, efforts of those trying to make a difference.
Still from Meet the Barbarians (Credit: Le Pacte)
The Syrian characters are portrayed with depth, showing that even within their community, there are deep wounds and unresolved conflicts.
‘Meet the Barbarians’ Is a Heartfelt Look at Community
Prejudice doesn’t stop at borders, and this film cleverly highlights that fact, offering a thoughtful yet funny portrayal of human flaws. The film often presents obvious moments, only to surprise the audience with more subtle, meaningful conclusions.
We are given a lighthearted, entertaining, and timely reflection on the need to question our assumptions and work through our biases, no matter where we come from.
The residents of Paimpont are not portrayed as mere caricatures of ignorant country folk; their behaviors and attitudes are relatable to people everywhere.
The film shows deep issues with humor and grace, making us laugh at ourselves as much as we laugh at the characters.
Meet the Barbarians offers an engaging view of how communities are built and maintained and how people from different backgrounds can come together to create something better.
Perfection is attainable and necessary in the dystopian universe of Uglies. As the credits roll for Netflix’s adaptation, many fans feel that the film needs a sequel soon. So far, Netflix has not confirmed a sequel to Uglies, but readers of the original book series know there is room for more adaptations.
Scott Westerfield’s series includes Uglies and three sequels: Pretties, Specials, and Extras. Pretties continues the story of Tally (played by Joey King) in her new form. What will it take for the rest of the series to be adapted for streaming?
Although there is no official announcement, fans should remain hopeful. There is potential for Tally’s story to continue. In an interview, King mentions that there are “more books” and hints at future installments. She states, “There’s worlds in which things that happen.
I’m not saying much right now.” She adds, “We’re really excited for people to see this one, and we’re excited for the future of these characters and to see what people enjoy.” It is clear that the production team behind Uglies is watching how the film is received before deciding to create more movies.
King explains further in her interview: “I think we’re just really excited to see how this one resonates with people, how it does, and how the world receives it, and we’ll see what happens.”
What can fans expect from a sequel to his strange world where superficiality is common and beauty is a powerful tool for control? Netflix’s Uglies ends on the same cliffhanger as the novels.
While Tally only mentions that she will become a Pretty in the book, the film clearly sets up a sequel. However, the many changes made from the original material will make it hard for the sequel to stay true to Pretties.
Still from the show (Netflix)
Westerfield’s second book focuses on Tally’s time as a brainwashed Pretty as she adjusts to her new life with Shay (played by Brianne Tju). The best friends fall out and join different groups.
Tally becomes part of the “Crims,” a group that enjoys thrilling adventures like bungee-jumping, where she meets her new love interest, Zane.
Meanwhile, Shay creates her own group called the “Cutters,” who self-harm to cope with the brain fog from the transformation. This group has a more significant role in the third book, Special.
During a Crims adventure, Tally hits her head and remembers the cure for the Pretty mind control. She and Zane try to escape to the Smoke, where scientists tell them that they used the cure incorrectly. As a result, Zane suffers serious brain damage, but Tally’s mind is fine.
It is her strong will that actually cured her (as she is the main character). Once again, the Special soldiers, which now include Shay, attack the Smoke.
Tally is recruited into the ranks of the Specials, leading into the next book. The chances of these events being adapted into a sequel depend on how well Uglies is received. If fans want the Pretties movie, they should keep streaming!
The fate of Uglies and its sequels ultimately rests in the hands of its audience. While there is no official word on whether Netflix will greenlight Pretties, the possibility remains open.
The production team, including Joey King, has expressed excitement for the potential continuation of the story, but their decision hinges on how well Uglies performs on the platform.
Fans of the series should continue to show their support by watching and engaging with the film, as their enthusiasm could be the key to seeing the rest of Scott Westerfield’s dystopian universe brought to life. Keep streaming and sharing!
