François Ozon’s The Stranger Premieres at Venice with Bold Camus Adaptation

French director François Ozon has premiered his latest film, The Stranger (L’étranger), in competition at the Venice Film Festival. The film is a stark black-and-white adaptation of Albert Camus’ iconic 1942 novel. It stars Benjamin Voisin as the nihilistic antihero, Meursault.

Ozon’s version remains faithful to the book’s existential core while introducing a crucial postcolonial perspective. This update makes the classic story resonate with modern audiences.

Modernizing a Classic with Visual Mastery

Adapting Camus’ internal, first-person narrative is a significant challenge. Ozon and cinematographer Manu Dacosse use high-contrast black-and-white imagery to capture the novel’s tone. The visuals plunge viewers into the harsh Mediterranean sun and the story’s emotional desolation.

The film meticulously recreates 1930s French Algeria. Production designer Katia Wyszkop builds a world that feels both beautiful and oppressive. According to initial reports from Venice, the first half is a sensual feast before the narrative’s dark turn.

A Postcolonial Rethink of a Literary Icon

Ozon’s most daring choice is giving a voice to the Algerian characters. In Camus’ original text, the Arab population remains largely anonymous and silent. This new perspective comments directly on the colonial indifference of the era.

This approach diverges from Camus’ own documented views on Algerian independence. However, it intelligently reframes Meursault’s alienation within the wider context of oppression. The film suggests his personal emptiness is linked to the immoral society he inhabits.

The casting of Benjamin Voisin proves inspired. He embodies Meursault’s detached beauty and internal void. Rebecca Marder also shines as Marie, his fleeting love interest.

While the third act becomes more theatrical within the prison setting, the performances sustain momentum. Ozon delivers a compelling and thought-provoking take on a classic that has long been considered unfilmable.

The Stranger offers a fresh and visually stunning look at a cornerstone of modern literature. François Ozon’s adaptation respects its source material while fearlessly engaging with its complicated historical context. This film successfully brings Camus’ existential masterpiece to a new generation.

Info at your fingertips

Is this the first film adaptation of The Stranger?

No. Italian director Luchino Visconti made a version in 1967 starring Marcello Mastroianni. Ozon’s film is a new interpretation for a modern audience.

How does the film differ from the book?

The most significant change is the increased presence and perspective of the Algerian characters. The book solely focused on Meursault’s internal French viewpoint.

Who stars in the lead role?

Benjamin Voisin plays Meursault. He previously worked with Ozon on the film Summer of 85. Rebecca Marder plays his lover, Marie.

What is the film’s visual style?

It is shot in stunning high-contrast black and white. This style effectively conveys the novel’s themes of stark morality and harsh sunlight.

Why is the novel considered difficult to adapt?

The book is famous for its first-person, internal monologue. Translating Meursault’s emotional indifference and philosophical musings into cinema is a major challenge.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, BBC News, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety