The film 'Toutes pour une', directed by Houda Benyamina, is set to hit theaters on January 22, bringing a fresh take on the classic story of 'The Three Musketeers' with an empowering twist. Unlike the traditional tales, this narrative features three women who don disguises as musketeers to combat threats facing the Queen of France.
Following her critically acclaimed debut, 'Divines', which won the Camera d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and three César awards, Benyamina is back with this unique romp through history infused with comedy and modern themes. The narrative centers around Sara, a young girl on the run, who discovers the shocking truth: the heroes protecting the Queen are women. Inspired, she joins them, embarking on their quest to rescue the Queen who has fled to Spain before lethal mercenaries can reach her.
The film is narrated with humor and charm, heavily interlaced with contemporary musical elements including hip-hop, pop, and even country, producing what critics have called whimsical and audacious storytelling. The characters are distinctively portrayed with wit and bravery by actresses Oulaya Amamra, Sabrina Ouazani, Déborah Lukumuena, and Daphné Patakia. Throughout the film, the essence of traditional masculinity is hilariously challenged as the female musketeers engage in comical antics.
One memorable scene from the film showcases the empowered trio demonstrating to Sara how to urinate standing up, laughing as they declare, “Force-toi à diriger ton jet.” With each laugh, they push societal boundaries and prompt viewers to reconsider gender roles traditionally depicted in classic narratives.
Critics have noted the film’s satirical take on its source material, creating parallels with films like 'Monty Python' and aligned styles akin to those developed by Quentin Tarantino. The absurdity of the long-bearded musketeers and the humorous situations they encounter evoke vivid sketches of comedic brilliance.
Benymina’s adept direction invites audiences to engage deeply with the portrayal of her characters. One extraordinary moment captures the immensely tall Portau as she comforts a cowardly marquis, saying, “Armand, je sens qu’à l’intérieur de toi, c’est tout fragile, t’as le droit de pleurer !” This exemplifies the blend of heartfelt moments with humor, reinforcing the narrative's overarching themes of transformation and self-acceptance.
Discussing her inspiration, Benyamina highlighted, "Quand Sara découvre que les Trois Mousquetaires qui protègent la Reine de France sont des femmes, cela change tout. Elle connaît alors la voie vers la liberté. C'est un message fort pour toutes les jeunes filles." By reshaping these iconic figures, the film not only entertains but also serves as inspiration for empowerment and diversity.
The film's comedic sequences undoubtedly encapsulate the essence of adventure and hilarity, from epic sword fights to parenting lessons on how to control one's stream, showcasing how diverse storytelling can provide fresh perspectives.
At its core, 'Toutes pour une' is not just about its humorous approach; it is also a celebration of friendship, resilience, and breaking conventional molds. With stunning visual styles and captivating soundtracks, it promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
With the release just around the corner, Benyamina expressed her excitement about audience reception, encouraging engagement through its messages of acceptance and empowerment. She states, "C’est essentiel pour moi que le message de transformation personnelle résonne au-delà de la salle de cinéma."
'Toutes pour une' will premiere this weekend, and with the buzz surrounding its lead actresses, many are eager to experience this unique twist on the classic tale and witness its bold celebration of feminine strength.