Vital Signs/Les Signes Vitaux (Sophie Deraspe, 2009): Canada

Reviewed by Lava Farmer.  Viewed at the Santa Barbara Film Festival.

Cinematographer, Screenwriter, and Director Sophie Deraspe tells the unique story of a mysterious girl named Simone in the film Vital Signs.  Simone(Marie-Helen Bellavance) returns home to Quebec City due to the death of her grandmother.  She embarks on a mission of self discovery when she decides to volunteer at a local nursing home and help those that are dying.  When asked by her unofficial boyfriend, Boris(Francis Ducharme), why she is interested in hanging around with a bunch of sick old people, she reveals that she cherishes the tender moments she spends with the dying.  In their final moments people are much more appreciative of the interactions and time they share with you.

Deraspe explained that she enjoys working with a combination of trained actors as well as unprofessionals.  Therefore when she met Marie-Helen Bellavance she was intrigued by her and decided to create a role for her.  Deraspe worked intensively with Marie and supporting actor Francis Ducharme to prepare her for the role.  Because of the chemistry between her and Francis, who is a professional actor, their interactions are real and believable.

Deraspe’s skill as a director of photography is apparent in practically every shot.  She uses extreme close-ups to create an  intimate relationship between the audience and the characters.  She uses parallel editing and fluidity between shots to give to film a smooth pace.  The use of shots from above looking down at the dead is an eerie effect.  It seems like the perspective the soul might have as it leaves behind it’s earthly body.

The setting is also important and dynamic.  The sterile, white hospital where Simone volunteers is lonely and slowly fading in life and energy.  Outside as fall quickly turns to winter, the weather is harsh and cruel to those who brave it.  Therefore, Simone’s apartment is warm and comforting with soft yellow light to contrast the harsh outer world.  Here she feels safe and in no need of help.

A unique element of Deraspe’s filmmaking is that she creates surprises in her shots that give it character.  For example when Simone encounters her boyfriend Boris in the doorway to his apartment the shot is simple and straightforward.  Then as he opens the door further, it is revealed that he is wearing only underwear and the audience responds with a chuckle.  The biggest surprise of all is finding out that Simone is even handicapped.  However, the way it is unveiled is startling and intriguing.

Deraspe’s unique cinematic vision comes to life in the strange story of a girl who cherishes the final moments of life.  Her unique story and well tuned filmmaking make Vital Signs a pleasant surprise.