Joseph is one of the last coastal shepherds in Corsica. His land is coveted by the underworld for a real estate project, but he chooses not to give in. When he leaves the man who came to intimidate him, the godfather’s own son, between life and death, he becomes the prey of a merciless hunt.
Now, here is a taut Neo-Western thriller that is thoughtfully crafted. In the Corsican mountains overlooking the Mediterranean, writer/director Frédéric Farrucci conjures a compelling narrative with an emotionally engaging screenplay that skewers toxic traditions and unnatural commercial real estate development.
The film’s lead character, Joseph, played by Alexis Manenti, embodies the perfect combination of stoic and expressive. Manenti is slowly becoming one of my newer favorite actors – appearing in this and “Maldoror,” which both premiered at this year’s La Biennale de Venezia (Venice Film Festival). In “Maldoror,” he is excellent in his supporting role as the partner to a cop overwhelmed by a sinister conspiracy. With his limited role, he brings a lot to the table and has an undeniable chemistry with the lead.
In “Le Mohican,” Joseph is a shepherd given an offer he can’t refuse by the local mob. They want to purchase his land to build commercial buildings for the wealthy, who treat the islanders with contempt and Corsica as their own playground. Joseph has his own way of doing things, like being the only shepherd with goats near the sea since other goat farms are nestled more inland. His niece Vannina (Mara Taquin) arrives from Paris and is disturbed by the mob’s influence over the local people. There are also militant groups ready to fight for autonomy from mainland France. Corsica is a powder keg ready to explode. These political elements recall the revolutionary dynamics of “The Mercenary” and “Compañeros” by the maestro Sergio Corbucci but on a smaller scale.
After Joseph kills one of the gangsters in self-defense, he is forced to go on the run. Thanks to social media and local chatter, Joseph’s rebellion is shared widely. On her Twitter account, Vannina begins outing the mob’s plans to develop on the farm, which has been in her family for multiple generations. Because of this, she is constantly intimidated and surveilled. When she is not posting, Vannina also cares for her uncle’s flock, beginning to feel more at home and in touch with her lineage.
“Le Mohican” goes beyond its Neo-Western roots by harnessing an emotionally resonant core. It is a testament to the importance of community when Joseph is sheltered by various people who risk their own lives to protect him and his growing legend on the island. And with a solid mixture of action and universal themes, its brief running time will leave you wanting more.
“Le Mohican” recently had its World Premiere at the 2024 Venice Film Festival
