Navigating the vast landscape of film festivals like Cannes can often be daunting, with audiences eager to discover hidden gems among the sea of prestigious titles. Amidst the glitz and glamour of the main festival, lesser-known directors shine in alternative programs, like the esteemed Directors’ Fortnight and Critics’ Week. It is in these arenas that true cinematic treasures are often unearthed, far from the spotlight of the red carpet and the frenzy of paparazzi.
Enter Matthew Rankin’s Universal Language, a Canadian comedy that has captured the hearts of Cannes audiences with its offbeat charm and visionary storytelling. Set against the backdrop of a whimsically reimagined world where Winnipeg and Iran converge, Rankin’s film unfolds with a delightful blend of poetic realism, surreal comedy, and subtle melancholy.
At first glance, Universal Language may seem tailored for cinephiles, but its universal appeal transcends boundaries, resonating with audiences far beyond the realm of film aficionados. The movie opens with a nod to the Winnipeg Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young People, a fictional homage to Iran’s esteemed Kanoon organization, renowned for its influential documentaries about children. From there, Rankin invites viewers on a journey through a surreal landscape where everyday occurrences take on a whimsical, otherworldly hue.
In Rankin’s cinematic universe, ordinary Canadian children speak Farsi, Groucho Marx makes a cameo in a classroom, and turkeys steal glasses. Against the backdrop of a snow-covered Winnipeg, tourists embark on a seemingly endless tour of mundane landmarks, while two girls embark on a quest to liberate a frozen bill from the ice. These seemingly disparate narratives intertwine seamlessly, creating a tapestry of absurdity and introspection.
While Universal Language may appear to be an exercise in hyperreferentiality, Rankin’s masterful direction ensures that each element contributes to the film’s cohesive vision. From playful fables to poignant reflections on identity and belonging, the movie effortlessly transitions between moments of levity and introspection, weaving a narrative that is at once familiar and utterly original.
Rankin, known for his experimental approach to filmmaking, has garnered acclaim for his previous works, including the stylized biopic The Twentieth Century. With Universal Language, he ventures into uncharted territory, crafting a film that defies categorization and captivates audiences with its gentle rhythms and poetic lyricism.
Drawing inspiration from cinematic influences like Abbas Kiarostami’s Close-Up, Rankin’s film is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal themes that transcend language and culture. As audiences immerse themselves in the world of Universal Language, they are reminded of the inherent complexities of the human experience and the universal desire to reconcile our past selves with our present realities.
In the crowded landscape of Cannes, where big titles vie for attention and accolades, Universal Language stands out as a true cinematic gem, a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the boundless creativity of visionary filmmakers like Matthew Rankin. As the film continues to garner acclaim on the festival circuit, audiences eagerly await its wider release, eager to experience the magic of Universal Language for themselves.
