In this dark French thriller directed by Olivier Assayas, Connie Nielsen (GLADIATOR) stars as Diane, an ambitious corporate climber. As Diane ruthlessly cuts down her rivals, she finds herself negotiating an important deal with the imposing Hervé Le Millinec (Charles Berling) and the producers of hi-tech, pornographic Japanese anime films. Eventually, her subversive business techniques lead her into the decadent and mysterious world of "The Hellfire Club," an interactive torture and S&M website. Can Diane maintain control of her increasingly shadowy and confusing situation? And can she continue to eliminate her opponents before they eliminate her?
With DEMONLOVER, Assayas has created a film that is immersed in the seedy and corporate elements of early 21st century pop culture--a world where big business, Japanese animation, and sex violently collide. Nielsen, who speaks fluent French, is compelling as Diane, an ice queen who refuses to allow any emotion to stand in her way. The cast is rounded out by the formidable Berling, Chloë Sevigny in a duplicitous role, and Gina Gershon as a trashy American counterpart to Diane. Alternatively atmospheric and jarring, Assayas' film is enhanced by Sonic Youth's cool, evocative score.
Part of Rendez-Vous With French Cinema 2003 presented by the Film Society of Lincoln Center, Unifrance, and The French Film Office/Unifrance USA, together with French Cultural Services.
DVD Features:
Full Frame - 1.33
Review 1:
"...[With] heart-poundingly beautiful cinematography..."
Source: Los Angeles Times
p.C10 09/19/2003
Review 2:
"...Ms. Nielsen projects the same blend of mystery, calculation and sensuality that she brought to her regal role in GLADIATOR..."
Source: New York Times
p.E15 09/19/2003
Review 3:
"...Assayas is a major talent..."
Source: Entertainment Weekly
p.102 10/10/2003
Review 4:
"An overlooked dark and kinky gem."
Source: Rolling Stone
p.94 04/01/2004
Review 5:
"DEMONLOVER is full of clever surprises and hidden truths."
Source: Premiere
p.104-6 05/01/2004