Laurent Cantet

Citation

Grayson H (2023) Laurent Cantet. In: Abecassis M, Block M & Chaplin F (eds.) The Art of Directing. Bern, Switzerland: Peter Lang Verlag. https://doi.org/10.3726/b19439

Abstract
First paragraph: In recent years Laurent Cantet has become an internationally renowned director and multiple prize winner. Known in particular for his interrogative, dialogic style of cinema, Cantet draws his viewers in to big questions of societal cohesion and power. His signature method of using amateur actors renders his films spontaneous, realist encounters with the fault lines of contemporary France. His commitment to the worlds of work and education emerged in his early work and set Cantet out as politically committed film-maker, with a keen interest in public debate. His incisive commentary on the present moment continues with the director’s ongoing support of France’s sans-papiers communities (illegal migrant workers).