"Wingwomen," directed by the talented Mélanie Laurent, emerges as a refreshing addition to the action-comedy genre, particularly with its focus on the female perspective. Starring Adèle Exarchopoulos as Alex and Mélanie Laurent as Carole, the film weaves an engaging narrative of friendship amidst thrilling heist sequences. Based on the graphic novel "The Grand Odalisque" by Jérôme Mulot, Florent Ruppert, and Bastien Vivès, the movie charts the story of two professional thieves who find themselves caught in a complex web of crime and loyalty.
The film opens with a captivating scene where Alex returns home from a night out, showing visible signs of a rough encounter, yet she casually dismisses the concern of her best friend, Carole. This scene sets the tone for the film's unique blend of humor and action, rooted deeply in the dynamics of their friendship. Unlike typical action films that tread the path of glorifying their protagonists, "Wingwomen" offers a more grounded portrayal of its main characters. Alex and Carole are skilled yet flawed individuals, navigating the treacherous world of crime while dealing with personal dilemmas.
Working under the menacing shadow of the 'Godmother' (played by the iconic Isabelle Adjani), both Alex and Carole aspire to break free from the life of crime. However, their final mission proves to be a labyrinth of challenges, involving the theft of architectural plans and an art piece, the latter humorously mistaken for a famous Ingres painting. The addition of Sam (Manon Bresch), a novice in crime but an expert driver, brings a fresh dynamic to the team. The training montage where Alex prepares Sam for the heist adds a touch of light-heartedness to the narrative.
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Mediterranean, the film beautifully captures the essence of its locations. Cinematographer Antoine Roch masterfully portrays the scenic beauty, enhancing the visual appeal of the film. "Wingwomen" also excels in its character portrayal, with each character having unique eccentricities and depth.
Director Mélanie Laurent, in her interview with Variety, discusses her approach to breaking away from clichés, especially in depicting female friendships. She emphasizes the importance of showcasing characters with flaws and vulnerabilities, a stark contrast to the typical 'badass' portrayal in action films. This approach adds a layer of authenticity to the film, making the characters relatable and the story more engaging.
Laurent's skill as a director is evident in her ability to balance action with emotional depth. Her previous works, like "Breathe" and "The Mad Women's Ball," showcase her versatility in handling different genres. In "Wingwomen," she brings out the best in her cast, highlighting Exarchopoulos' earthiness, Bresch's vulnerability, and Adjani's glamorous portrayal of a crime boss.
A notable aspect of the film is the way Laurent introduces Adjani's character. The scene in the movie theater, where she watches "La Verite sur Bebe Donge," is a thoughtful homage to the legends of French cinema, connecting Adjani to the greats like Danielle Darrieux and Jean Gabin. This scene, while not advancing the plot, underscores the importance of relationships and character development in storytelling.
While "Wingwomen" may not have a perfect conclusion, the journey it takes the audience on is filled with fun, action, and a deep exploration of friendship. It stands out as a film that not only entertains but also resonates with its portrayal of strong, nuanced female characters navigating the complexities of life and relationships.
