Lila Pinell’s SHANA takes the viewer on a tragicomic ride alongside its heroine as she struggles to fit in and navigates an abusive relationship.
The grainy 16mm photography and her hustling through the streets of Paris, racing against time to come up with the money she owes, are sure to bring the Safdies to mind. Shana’s life is messy and stressful, but Pinell takes a more relaxed approach, letting us take in the drama and comedy without pushing the anxiety level to 11.
Eva Huault is really remarkable here giving one of the most memorable performances I’ve seen this year. She is funny, foul-mouthed, and unapologetic, yet makes us feel her inner turmoil as she searches for what she wants in life.
Pinell’s fondness for the character shines through, and the film is a terrific discovery.
