Cinema

This French edge of your seat prison drama come highly recommended. What with winning the 2009 Grand Prix at Cannes and best film at the London Film Festival it should be good and it is.

Starting out with a nineteen year old Tahar Rahim (Malik El Djebena) receiving a six year stretch in the clink He finds himself alone and friendless as he learns the ropes of prison life. Which includes gang rule and coming under the influence of César the boss.

Life is tough to say the least. Gradually he is given various tasks to fulfil, which in turn opens his eyes to what he can achieve on his own. Being part Arab and Corsican he uses both gangs to his advantage but not before enduring beatings and humiliation at the hand of the other inmates. How he survives and comes out on top makes for a fascinating and absorbing watch. Be warned though it is violent, hard hitting and long.

4 stars