A young serial killer with a titanium plate in her head on the run assumes the identity of a boy who disappeared seven years ago, and then things get weird in the French language body horror movie Titane. Directed and written by Julia Ducournau, Titane is an elegantly disgusting pop nightmare that explores gender, family, violence, and flesh.
I’d suggest Titane is equally brutal and poetic, but that’s the wrong ratio. It’s merciless, mainly, and when there’s beauty, it’s short-lived—a glimpse. I wouldn’t recommend going in expecting an easy-to-follow narrative, either. Why does she bleed motor oil? It’s best not to ask.
As sexy, dangerous Alexia, who becomes sullen, angry Adrien, Agathe Rousselle makes her feature film debut and gives a stunning performance. Vincent Lindon plays the runaway boy's father. His performance is intense and heartbreaking, and he can keep up with Rousselle, especially during the wild Cronenbergian birth scene.