The Calling (film, 2000)
Ah, Le Pacte des Loups, or as the English-speaking world so charmingly (and perhaps a tad dramatically) calls it, The Calling. Released in 2000, this French historical action-horror flick is a cinematic concoction that deserves a spot on your "so bad it's good" or maybe even "surprisingly not bad at all" list. Let’s just say, if you’re looking for a quiet evening with a cup of chamomile and a gentle reminder of the fragility of life, you might want to steer clear. But if you’re in the mood for a flamboyant frock-coat, some questionable scientific theories, and a beast that’s clearly had a bad day… well, pull up a velvet chair.
Our story whisks us away to the French countryside in the late 18th century. Think powdered wigs, cobblestone streets, and a general air of aristocratic ennui. Suddenly, this idyllic (or not so idyllic, if you’re a peasant) scene is shattered by a series of gruesome maulings. We’re talking really gruesome. So gruesome, in fact, that the local populace starts pointing fingers at a literal monster. A beast of Gévaudan, they whisper, with eyes like embers and claws like… well, like monster claws. You get the picture.
Enter the Heroes (of sorts).
Enter our intrepid (and possibly slightly over-dramatized) heroes: Grégoire de Fronsac, a knight of the King’s own order, played with a dash of brooding intensity by Samuel Le Bihan. He’s the intellectual, the rationalist, the guy who’s supposed to figure this whole beastly mess out. Accompanying him is Mani, a mysterious Native American tracker (think noble savage, but with excellent archery skills), brought to life by the ever-so-cool Vincent Cassel. Mani’s not just here for the scenic views; he’s got his own agenda, and let’s just say, his relationship with this beast is… complicated.
Their mission? To hunt down this elusive creature and restore peace to the terrified kingdom. Simple enough, right? Oh, if only. This beast is less "misunderstood stray dog" and more "the reason your grandmother still checks under the bed." It’s stealthy, it’s powerful, and it seems to have a particular fondness for… well, you’ll see. Let's just say the local fashion designers are having a field day with all the shredded fabric.
More Twists Than a Pretzel Factory.
But wait, there’s more! Because this isn't just a monster hunt. Oh no. Le Pacte des Loups is a veritable buffet of intrigue. We’ve got political conspiracies, secret societies, forbidden romances (because what’s a period piece without a bit of swooning?), and even a dash of alchemy. Yes, you read that right. Alchemy. Apparently, our beast might not be entirely… natural. Cue the raised eyebrows and the slightly nervous laughter.
The film throws so many ideas at you, it’s like a confetti cannon at a wedding. You’ve got your standard chase scenes, your sword fights that are more ballet than brawling, and your moments of genuine tension. And then, just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, BAM! Another revelation. It’s enough to make your brain do a little jig. But in the best possible way, you know?
And the costumes! Let’s not forget the costumes. They are… magnifique. Even the peasants look like they’ve stepped off a runway. And the sets! You can practically smell the woodsmoke and the damp earth. It’s a visual feast, even if the plot occasionally feels like it’s been assembled by a committee of caffeinated squirrels.
The Verdict?
So, is The Calling a masterpiece? Probably not in the traditional sense. Is it entertaining? Absolutely. It’s a film that knows it’s a little bit bonkers and leans into it with gusto. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a well-dressed man with a secret. If you’re looking for a film that’s a bit of a throwback, a bit of a thrill, and a whole lot of French flair, give it a watch. Just maybe don’t watch it right before bed if you have a fondness for sleeping through the night. You might find yourself developing a sudden urge to invest in a very sturdy pair of boots and a truly terrifying-looking crucifix. Or, at the very least, a deep appreciation for the fact that your biggest daily concern is probably not being mauled by a genetically modified prehistoric wolf with a taste for velvet.
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