How many pleasures of the senses do you know without an iota of sin in them? Maybe the music is unique. Anyway, music is the best way we have to come to terms with our loneliness and the tyranny of time.
“Vernon Subutex” is a multi-faceted TV series that airs on Cinobo and weaves the threads of music, friendship and mystery. At its core, the series revolves around the eponymous character, Vernon Suboutex, an unemployed former owner of the iconic Revolver record store, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is evicted from his apartment. The narrative unfolds as Vernon, struggling with homelessness, turns to his old friends from the 1990s music scene in a desperate search for a place to stay.
A pivotal moment comes with the introduction of rock star Alex Blitz, one of Vernon’s former partners. Tragically, Alex succumbs to an overdose, leaving behind an enigmatic legacy in the form of three mysterious videotapes. Vernon, ever the reluctant protagonist, grabs these tapes and, in an attempt to remain invisible, plunges anonymously into the busy streets of Paris. Little does he know that this seemingly innocent act launches him into a fascinating web of intrigue, turning him into the most “wanted” man in town.
The series navigates the complicated relationships between Vernon and his eclectic circle of friends, each carrying the weight of their own past and secrets. As the narrative unfolds, viewers take a nostalgic journey through the 1990s music scene, exploring the ups and downs of fame, friendship and the haunting specter of addiction. The series masterfully weaves the personal struggles of its characters with the larger cultural backdrop, creating a rich mosaic that resonates with resonance.
Subutex’s odyssey through the city becomes the lens through which the series examines the changing dynamics of friendship, the ephemeral nature of fame, and the indelible impact of the past on the present. Acting as a narrative catalyst, the mysterious videotapes add an element of suspense and intrigue that propels the story forward. As Vernon grapples with the consequences of owning these films, the series’ tension builds steadily and effortlessly. Set in Paris, the series captures the essence of the city, using its vibrant streets and diverse neighborhoods as both a backdrop and a character in its own right.
“Vernon Subutex” is a provocative and emotionally charged series that perfectly combines elements of drama, mystery and nostalgia. Not only does it delve into the complexities of personal relationships, but it also offers an unvarnished commentary on the cultural landscape of the 1990s.
The series is based on the eponymous cult trilogy of books by Virginie Depad, in an interview, the author spoke regarding the end of the trilogy: “I am very pessimistic regarding the difficult times we are going through, but at the same time I have an optimism. And I think the end of the book ends there: I wish something good would happen, but I’m not sure how it will. You have to understand that these books were written at the time of the terrorist attacks in Paris, and that’s something that shows; you can understand that: We had this feeling that we might die the next day, without a fight. But at the same time, we were thinking: Maybe something might survive – maybe music.
“Music is not just big business; it’s a form of high poetry,” he concludes. The miniseries starring Romain Duris is a mural of today’s Parisian society, but mostly a love letter and tribute to the music, culture and lost dreams of the 90s generation. The 9 episodes of the Vernon Subutex series are directed by Cathy Verney and Starring: Romain Duris, Celine Salet, Laurent Luca, Flora Fischbach, Philippe Rimbaud, Florence Thomasin, Emilie Gavois Khan, Ataya Mokonzi.
The series’ format is a masterful blend of gritty realism and cutting-edge stylization, creating a unique narrative mosaic that reflects the ambivalence and complexity of its characters. One of the most striking elements of the series’ format is its dynamic cinematography. The camera becomes a character in its own right, navigating fluidly through the varied cityscapes of Paris. The use of many handheld shots and unconventional angles immerses us in the frantic energy of Vernon Subuteux’s world, heightening the sense of urgency and chaos that permeates the narrative. This stylistic choice not only captures the essence of the story but also invites viewers into the instinctive experience of the characters.
“Vernon Subutex”, it is true, stumbles in its attempt to balance a compelling narrative with depth of characters, often succumbing to a chaotic and unfocused storytelling style. The show’s reliance on stereotypical depictions of struggling artists and the music industry feels clichéd, lacking the necessary nuance that would make the characters truly compelling. The abrupt shifts between tones make it difficult to get emotionally invested in the characters, and the plot meanders without clear direction. An overemphasis on Subutex’s enigmatic journey overshadows the potential for a deeper exploration of the social issues it touches upon.
The non-linear narrative structure further differentiates “Vernon Subutex” from conventional television programs. The series seamlessly interweaves multiple timelines, using flashbacks and flash-forwards with finesse. Deliberate ambiguity in the narrative requires the active participation of viewers, challenging them to connect the dots and derive meaning from the fragmented narrative.
The soundtrack of “Vernon Subutex” is a sonic adventure. The music, drawn from the vibrant era of the 1990s, serves not only as a nostalgic backdrop, but also as a character that propels the story forward. The integration of sound and images is executed with precision, creating a sensory experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of television. Each musical beat becomes a heartbeat, pulsating with the rhythm of the characters’ lives and the evolving urban landscape.
The authenticity of the series extends to the production design. From the grimy interiors of the legendary Revolver record store to the harsh reality of Subutex’s evicted apartment and the apartments of his friends that our hero occupies to hang out, every setting is a meticulously crafted reflection of the characters’ lived experiences. The attention to detail in the representation of the 1990s music scene and contemporary Parisian cityscape adds layers of richness to the visual narrative.
Only music can penetrate our cells with ease, sink into the bowels of our soul, shed light on our darkness, heal our eternal wounds, and as it bids us farewell, our memory will bring it back, make it nostalgic , emotion and redemption, just the music.
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