I have no idea what to expect from Bertrand Bonello’s House of Tolerance (L’Apollonide – Souvenirs de la maison close), but I suspect from this teaser trailer it will explore the sensuous while the plot description suggests plenty of darkness. Have a read:
At the dawn of the 20th century, in a brothel in Paris, a man disfigures a prostitute for life. She is marked with a scar that draws a tragic smile on her face. Around the woman who laughs, the life of other girls, their rivalry, their fears, their joy, their pain…From the external world, nothing is known. Their world is closed.
I have not seen any of Bonello’s previous films and based on user ratings at IMDb it doesn’t look as if he’s been making a ton of hits, but the fact this film is part of the Competition selection makes me think there must be something here. The plot is certainly intriguing, but I want to hear what you think. Have a look at the NOT SAFE FOR WORK teaser below and give me your thoughts in the comments. And, if you want more, I have a gallery of equally NOT SAFE FOR WORK pictures right here.
I will be seeing this one Sunday, May 15 and will hopefully have a full review for you shortly after.
I will be in Cannes from May 10-19, covering reviews and news out of the festival as they happen. I hope you’ll check in frequently.
