Today in Taiwan, the comedy film “The Book of Solutions” premiered. The story revolves around a director who faced rejection from investors after completing a film, but then had a stroke of genius to create “The Book of Solutions,” revitalizing his career with a wave of positive energy.
In the film, Pierre Niney, known for his role as legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent in “Yves Saint Laurent,” plays a director named Marc suffering from bipolar disorder. After his latest work was rejected by investors, he teams up with his friend Charlotte, an editor, to edit the film on their own terms, relocating to his aunt’s house with all the footage and equipment.
Directed by Michel Gondry, the filmmaker behind “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” “The Book of Solutions” was selected for the Director’s Fortnight competition at the Cannes Film Festival last year. Niney and Gondry, who briefly met at the Cesars Awards in 2012, reunited for this project with Niney surprising Gondry with his immediate acceptance of the lead role offer despite his soaring popularity.
The film also features Sting, the iconic member of the British rock band The Police, in a cameo as a composer. Sting’s unexpected appearance during the premiere in Taiwan added an element of surprise and excitement for the audience.
After achieving fame with “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” Gondry faced a significant creative crisis in his directorial career. “The Book of Solutions” serves as a heartfelt letter from Gondry to his friends and family who have supported him over the years, marking a significant turning point in his life and creativity.
Full of creativity, the film showcases Gondry’s innovative approach, including the use of a remarkable “editing truck” and Niney’s unconventional conducting of a symphony orchestra. The phrase “cut the film in reverse” mentioned in the film has left many creators astonished. Niney’s versatile portrayal of a character with bipolar disorder coupled with his quirky remarks adds a humorous touch to the film.
In a tense group gathering scene, Niney lightens the mood with the line “My hands are swimming pools,” easing the awkwardness of shaking hands. His quote “Only my inspiration would bring me into the light” encapsulates the journey of a creator through dark valleys. With continuous imaginative elements and witty quotes, foreign media hails the film as the “most intriguing surrealist comedy.”
“The Book of Solutions” is a film about the process of filmmaking itself, following the story of young director Marc, played by Niney, who, after his latest film is rejected by a Paris production company, escapes with his editor Charlotte to his aunt’s house in a small village in the Savoie Mountains to try to revive his career.
Just when everyone thought he had run out of ideas, Marc suddenly finds inspiration and writes “The Book of Solutions,” sparking a resurgence of creativity in both his personal and professional life, defying all odds.