Fantaisie review – study of a modern Ophelia swamped by audiovisual overwhelm

Isabel Pagliai's feature debut film, Fantaisie, offers a compelling study of its protagonist Louise, blending elements of documentary and fiction to create a dark fairytale atmosphere. The film employs a distinctive style, combining handheld footage with striking still images, which contributes to its dreamlike quality and fragmented narrative structure. Fantaisie explores themes related to a modern Ophelia, portraying Louise as overwhelmed by audiovisual stimuli. This approach blurs the boundaries between reality and imagination, inviting viewers to engage with the character's inner world in a nuanced way. Critics have responded positively to the film's quality, highlighting its captivating and innovative storytelling. As a debut, Fantaisie stands out for its artistic ambition and emotional depth, marking a notable entry in contemporary cinema.