I just recently bought a new 40 inch large screen LCD television and have been making it an issue to revisit some of my favourite films in the larger format. One of the films I decided to watch was Tamara’s LITTLE CHENIER and may I say, it’s a masterpiece. It’s not on the grand scale as say Kubrick’s 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, but it has the same elements in its ability to transform you to a place where as we all know, no longer survives. The film is beautifully shot and the acting is so understated and rich. Of course, Tamara shines as Marie-Louise LeBauve, a troubled woman torn between family honour and her heart for a man she truly loves. Tamara brings to Marie-Louise everything she can in terms of pain, love, devotion. She breaks my heart in this movie. Her scenes with the two men in Marie-Louise’s life encapsulate her as an actress. With Johnathon Schaech as Beaux Dupuis, Tamara shows her passion and heart as she loves with all her heart. With Jeremy Davidson as Carl LeBauve, Tamara shows her reserved side, her ability to say so much with so little movement and facial expression, everything emanating through her eyes. I think my only criticism about the film is with Carl LeBauve’s character. I hate him with a passion. Davidson is too good and giving us a true villian. He’s what I have called a malcontent. I think the end of the film is what would be classed as poetic justice. All in all, I love this movie. I’d put it up there with the likes of a film called SINNER with Nick Chinlund and SMOKE SIGNALS with Adam Beach, two very good films I recommend for the true film buff. The selected screencap of Tamara is from the pivotal conclusion of the the film. Enjoy.
