A Prophet: A Review of the Timeless Film

Hello, this is a review of the film 'A Prophet' (예언자), which has been re-released to celebrate its 15th anniversary. Originally released in 2010, this film is a gripping exploration of identity and survival, and it remains just as captivating today. Directed by Jacques Audiard, who is known for his work on 'Emilie Perez', 'A Prophet' won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and is a blend of crime, noir, and gangster genres. The film runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes, and it flows seamlessly, making it hard to believe how quickly time passes.

The story follows Malik, a 19-year-old who is just stepping into adulthood. As he navigates life in a French prison, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that ultimately leads him to become a 'prophet' in his own right. The film opens with Malik being incarcerated in a prison located in the suburbs of Paris, where he is sentenced to six years for assaulting a police officer. During the intake process, a guard asks him, "Do you eat pork?" This question is significant because, although Malik is French, he has Arab heritage. His ambiguous response, "No, yes," highlights his undefined identity at this point, which becomes crucial for his survival.

The prison serves as a microcosm of the conflicts present in French society, particularly between Arab and Corsican communities, as well as the involvement of Egyptian gypsies and the Italian mafia. In this dangerous environment, Malik learns the rules of survival, starting with language. He catches the attention of Corsican boss César and begins running errands for him, teaching himself Corsican along the way. This language is distinct from standard French, and Malik, who was illiterate upon entering prison, quickly adapts and becomes resourceful.

However, Malik's survival is not solely based on his ability to learn. His fluid identity allows him to navigate between opposing factions, negotiating and mediating conflicts with remarkable skill. The film showcases his boldness in various situations, suggesting that he possesses an innate talent for survival.

César, who is both an ally and a threat to Malik, exemplifies how everyday objects can become deadly weapons. Their relationship can be likened to a father-son dynamic, reminiscent of the Oedipal themes often found in Western literature. Another pivotal figure in Malik's transformation is Reyeb, his first murder victim, who was the only person to encourage Malik to pursue education. The film's graphic depiction of Reyeb's murder is one of the reasons for its adult rating, and Reyeb's ghost continues to haunt Malik, representing his inner conflict and self-awareness.

Upon rewatching 'A Prophet' after 15 years, I noticed details I had previously overlooked, such as the significance of shoes. When Malik first enters prison, a guard discards his worn-out sneakers, symbolizing the loss of his former identity. In a later scene, as Malik prepares for a crucial confrontation, he gazes at a display window showcasing expensive shoes, foreshadowing the man he is destined to become.

The expression on Malik's face in the film's later scenes is striking, perfectly capturing the tension of the moment. This contrast between his demeanor and the unfolding events highlights the film's artistry.

Additionally, the film's title, 'A Prophet', is significant. During a moment of crisis, Malik shouts, "The beast is coming!" upon seeing a deer sign, prompting a rival to question his prophetic abilities. This moment serves as a metaphor for Malik's transformation and foreshadows his emergence from the prison's confines into the outside world.

The distinction between 'The Prophet' and 'A Prophet' in English is noteworthy. The former is reserved for figures like Muhammad, while the latter reflects Malik's journey of self-creation and identity. This suggests that anyone has the potential to become their own prophet. I highly recommend experiencing this multi-layered and entertaining film in theaters while it's still showing.