The Son of Joseph (12A)

three stars

Dir: Eugene Green

With: Victor Ezenfis, Mathieu Amalric

Runtime: 115 minutes

IF you don’t fancy going to a certain galaxy far far away, there is plenty of odd, and strangely enjoyable, pleasure to be had in Eugene Green’s French drama. With nods to the bible, this is a seasonal tale with a difference.

The story opens with Vincent (Victor Ezenfis), an unhappy teen living in Paris with his single mother. Despite repeated pleas by Vincent, mum refuses to say who the boy’s father is, telling him: “You have no father.”

As sure as Easter eggs are Easter eggs (available in the shops right after Christmas), Victor is determined to find his dad. But on learning who he is, the lad begins to wonder why he bothered. Renowned publisher Oscar (the always splendid Mathieu Amalric) is the very definition of louche. Here is a man who despises the petty details of life, like how many children he has.

Fortunately, Vincent bumps by chance into someone who knows Oscar better than most, and is able to guide the youngster, with the help of Old Testament teachings, towards some sort of peace.

Green’s picture is a slow burn affair, but it is sprinkled with just enough touches of wicked humour to keep you watching in the initial stages. Once enmeshed on this story set in a curiously empty Paris you could find yourself hooked.

Glasgow Film Theatre, tomorrow to December 22.