13 Tzameti (2005) NR - 3½ Stars

In French with subtitles and subdued image black and white, the movie starts out on the lengthy side explaining a young mans desperate need to make some money but what he's put through to get it, is mind blowing. It's one of those movies you'll never forget.

Sebastien (George Babluani) is a young man in his 20's lives a very meek and poor life with his parents in a poor area of town. When he over hears news about making money quickly, he takes a package containing a train ticket and very detailed instructions on what he needs to do next. He also changes his name to become the proper owner of the ticket.

Along the way he is still unsure of where he is going and for what cause but as he gets closer to his destination, pieces start falling into place. He arrives to see people making huge bets on the tournament that's going on inside. The two betters waiting for his arrival really don't have time to explain the game to him until he steps into the ring of 13 playing Russian Roulette. Once the game is started, it can not be stopped.

2006 - 13 (Tzameti) - Sundance Film Festival - World Cinema Jury Prize: Dramatic.

Palm Pictures
Director: Géla Babluani
Writers: Sabine Bauchart, Géla Babluani
Producer: Géla Babluani

I viewed 3/07