When the scholastic achievements of students and schools are being analysed in the press, various socio-economic factors are discussed. What actually counts in the long run? Nature? Nurture? Economic advantage/disadvantage? The quality of teaching and parenting?….the variables are many!
In his subtly provocative MY BROTHER’S BAND (En fanfare), writer/director Emmanuel Courcol explores the impact of such issues in a manner reminiscent of Ken Loach. Ostensibly a comedy, Courcol’s film is a perceptive commentary on socio-economic inequality and personal satisfaction.
Two brothers, separated as infants, are reunited as adults. Thibaut Desormeaux (Benjamin Lavernhe) is an internationally acclaimed orchestra conductor. It is only when he falls ill that a DNA test reveals he had been adopted as an infant by the wealthy Parisian couple. He learns that he has a younger brother Jimmy (Pierre Lottin), living in the economically stressed village in Northern France, where the boys had been born. Jimmy was raised by Claudine (Clemence Massart) and her late husband. Following an acrimonious divorce in which he lost custody of his beloved daughter, Jimmy now is back living with widowed Claudine; as well as caring for her, he works as a chef in the school cafeteria and plays the trombone in a village brass band. Why trombone? It was the only instrument the band had left!
Their respective upbringings may have been as different as chalk and cheese, but the brothers clearly share their innate musical talent. Music is Thibaut’s profession, while for Jimmy it is his solace. When Thibaut recognises that Jimmy also has perfect pitch, he endeavours to help him refine his musical skills. He is acutely aware of the role that fate has played in their lives. He wants to know “Why am I here and he’s there?”. Yet, which of the brothers truly has better quality of life? Do Jimmy and his friends derive more or less enjoyment and satisfaction from rehearsing and playing in their community band as Thibaut and the musicians in the various symphony orchestras that he conducts? Which brother is happier? Courcol and his cast deftly avoid any temptation to let sentiment become mawkish.
The music of Mahler, Ravel, Aznavour and Clifford Brown is integral to this thoughtful film. As well as the enthralling narrative, it’s a musical treat. Well worth seeing.
Great film. Hope there is a sequel.
A great film. Depicts how failure can become a success.
How forced hardship can bring rich blessings to create a new sense of belonging. How love for life and patience can achieve a great result. Unselfishness and love are key elements here.