MARION Movie Review: This Tightly Wound Drama of Triumph Deserves Your Attention I AFI Fest 2024

 by Evan L. Jackson 

As the only female bull jumper in the country of France, Marion faces obstacles as she is resilient and yes, even bull-headed in her response to adversity. This film "MARION" is a tightly wound drama which premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. To call it a short film is a disservice because you feel the cinematic elements of a full length featured film as you watch it. The misogyny, sudden break in focus when she need to attend to her daughter, and break neck speed back to bull jumping makes for a high octane film that deserves your attention. 

       Directed by Joe Weiland & Finn Constantine, Marion is outstanding in its balance of tension and smooth calmness. Opening up with a prayer "Protect Her" you feel Marion is at ease even in the most chaotic moments. I love how she stepped into the arena and greeted the crowd, just after adjusting her daughter and making sure she's safe. An unexpected moment, arguing with her father of her child, she quickly adjusts. I feel also, the daughter's inclination to explore the ground and finally ascending up the stairs is symbolic of Marion's journey herself. Although bull jumping is entirely male dominated in the world of this film, Marion hold her own. Not letting adversity get her down but honestly letting her re-energize her to try again. Wow! The synergy among the male bull jumpers and Marion breaking that form every time was impressive. Not only with her entering the room but also her establishing her own self and how she's different from them. In terms of preparation, resiliency, and bravado.

    This film is executive produced by Cate Blanchett And Sienna Miller, with it premiering at the Venice Film Festival, being at the Toronto International Film Festival and more esteemed film fests. The film will be screened at the 2024 AFI Film Fest as part of the SHORTS PROGRAM: LIVE ACTION 1 on October 24th at 7:45pm. Tune into this drama as it deserves your attention and Marion earns your applause.