L'orchestra stonata

"The Marching Band" (2024) is one of those rare films that stays with you long after the credits roll. Directed with incredible sensitivity and vision, it captures the raw emotions of its characters and presents a story that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The performances are outstanding - every actor brings authenticity and depth to their role. The music, naturally central to the story, is woven in so seamlessly that it feels like a character of its own, carrying the audience through moments of joy, sorrow, and quiet reflection.

What moved me most was how the film portrayed resilience and human connection without ever feeling forced or overly sentimental. It's honest, heartfelt storytelling at its best.

Visually, the movie is stunning too - each frame feels carefully composed, almost poetic. The director's touch is gentle yet firm, allowing the story to unfold naturally while maintaining a clear artistic vision.

I wholeheartedly recommend "The Marching Band" to anyone who loves films that speak to the soul. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of art, music, and human perseverance.

I don't have an easy tear, but my eyes were shining as I left the hall.

Masterful performance by Benjamin Lavernhe. The story is very nice, light but not superficial, never dull.

Many melodies run through the film, the comedy, the drama, the 'protest' film (it reminded me of Kean Loach).

The red thread is music, in its purest manifestations from classical to jazz. The popular declination is very successful, making it a film for everyone. I will take my 9- and 12-year-old children to see it.

I think the only "flaw" in the film is the direction. Some parts of the film are not tied together well. But the rendering is still effective and, above all, emotionally impactful.

A moving rendition of the bond between two brothers at opposite ends of the social spectrum, of what a life's achievement means, and of the consequences of single decisions by parents on a child's destiny.

The screenplay manages to blend funny dialogues, unexpected situations, and serious moments. What could have been "only" a sad drama escapes that trap. With a great supporting cast, B Lavernhe and P Lottin succeed in bringing to life the bond and tension between a renowned director and an amateur brass band member E Courcol's, M Tomersy's, O Bonduel's, I Muscari and K Amara's storytelling and the quality of acting combine to make it one the great movies I've seen this year.

Just watched it on Varilux French Movie Festival in Brazil.

Nice story about bonding with family members, about the "what could have beens" in life.

It's a drama but with warmth and some laughs. Acting of the two main characters are on point, especially the brother played by Pierre Lotin whose role is a somewhat closed person but with good heart.

Believable story without being too dramatic. I really recommend it.

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Just watched it on Varilux French Movie Festival in Brazil.

Nice story about bonding with family members, about the "what could have beens" in life.

It's a drama but with warmth and some laughs. Acting of the two main characters are on point, especially the brother played by Pierre Lotin whose role is a somewhat closed person but with good heart.

Believable story without being too dramatic. I really recommend it.

Oh how wonderful, a drama/comedy at its best. A country like France is truly a master at this. The actors are absolutely wonderful in their roles. The seriousness and humor are spot on. I really love that mix in a film. You are never disappointed. The film highlights many things that can be crucial in life. Without me revealing anything. After watching a film like this, you are filled with different emotions such as joy, hope and a little bit of sadness. Then the director has succeeded with his film in my opinion. The most important thing about film is that you are touched in one way or another. It is the experience and feelings you carry with you after you have seen a really good film. Watch the film and be touched in your own way.