STRAYED IN SOUTH AFRICA

The friendship and trust that develops rapidly between a 17-year-old homeless boy and a young mother with two children is the basis for Andre Techines Strayed. They find each other during a terrifying WWII bombing as they are escaping Paris for the countryside. Yvan is a recluse hiding in the woods. Odile is a widow trying to get her children to safety. Together, the group finds a magical abandoned chateau hidden far back in the forest, and they take shelter there. Settling into a nearly idyllic secret existence as the rest of the world endures the hardships of war; their situation is fairly surreal. Yvan is resourceful and self-sufficient, instantly taking on the role of the man in the family. He hunts for rabbits, delights the children with his youthfulness and curiosity, and even ignites a romantic spark in Odile. But there is always a sense of urgency and doubt, as if the temporary paradise theyve stumbled upon will come to a rapid halt and fall into the shadows of some looming dark event. A beautiful film that takes a carpe diem approach to survival - and loving life - during wartime, Strayed is rich with substance while also being a visually enjoyable and entertaining film from talented director Techine.