Et la fête continue! (2023)

In November 2018, the collapse of two apartment blocks on rue d'Aubagne in Marseille left a tragic toll of six lives lost and forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents.

This devastating event highlighted the precariousness of housing in the city, giving rise to the film “Et la fête continue!”.

The story revolves around Rosa, a 60-year-old mother, political activist and nurse about to retire.

In a context marked by crises in healthcare, housing and education, as well as constant political tensions, Rosa decides to run for election with the aim of bringing about change.

At the same time, she rediscovers love in her life. Alongside her, director Robert Guédiguian introduces other members of the family, each with their own personal plots that address themes such as miscommunication, the search for identity and helplessness in the face of seemingly insurmountable conflicts.

Although the film presents itself as a social comedy, it actually leans more towards drama, offering smile-inducing moments and using secondary characters to lighten the emotional load.

In addition, “Et la fête continue!” is replete with portrayals of healthy and exemplary family relationships, where dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution are the norm. The experience of finding love in old age is also narrated in an endearing way.

The film is based on a true story and delves into everyday problems that, although specific to a Marseille neighborhood, are universal.

Guédiguian once again brings together his usual cast to explore recurring themes in his filmography: family, friendship, love and political activism.

This activism is characterized by its focus on consensus and community values, emphasizing class solidarity and leaving aside violence and stereotypes.

One of the highlights of “Et la fête continue!” is its ability to offer a well-developed choral portrait of all the characters.

The film's aesthetics are imbued with hope and optimism, while it subtly and without didacticism raises a series of current and prescient issues, such as access to housing, job insecurity and the reception of the most vulnerable.

All this is achieved through scenes and dialogues that, without losing their realism, have a particular charm, sprinkled with ironic touches and dreamlike brushstrokes.

“Et la fête continue!” is a tribute to justice and to life, an invitation to return to the barricades in the unique way that only Robert Guédiguian knows how to do.

The film manages to move in a genuine way, without artifice, connecting with reality and without detaching itself from its essence. It is not only a committed work, but also a vibrant one, a light that shines in the darkness.