Grand Central
Grand Central

Grand Central

2013Movie94 minFrench

A young unemployed man finds work at a nuclear power plant and begins an illicit affair with the fiancée of one of his senior workmates.

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Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes78%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users65%
Director: Rebecca ZlotowskiGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In the heart of a bustling nuclear power plant, a young woman named Carole finds herself caught between two men: the experienced and charismatic foreman Gilles, and the ambitious young worker close to her. As their lives become increasingly entangled amidst the dangerous and high-pressure environment, Carole must navigate complex emotional ties and the ever-present risks of her profession. The film explores themes of love, desire, and the precariousness of life against the backdrop of industrial intensity.

Critical Reception

Grand Central received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its atmospheric tension, strong performances, and Zlotowski's assured direction. While some found the narrative somewhat slow-paced, the film was largely commended for its nuanced portrayal of complex relationships and its evocative setting.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its atmospheric and sensual tension.
  • Noted for strong lead performances, particularly Léa Seydoux.
  • Appreciated for its unique setting and exploration of taboo relationships.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's captivating atmosphere and the compelling chemistry between the lead actors. Some viewers found the plot a bit predictable, but many appreciated its artistic approach and emotional depth.

Awards & Accolades

Screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location at the Cruas-Meysse nuclear power plant in France, adding a significant level of authenticity to its setting.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I'm usually a fan of a bit of Tahar Rahim but there's not really so much going on in this romantic drama. It's setting is novel - it's not often that you find a nuclear power station as the location for a love story. That's where he ends up...
MoHA

MoHA

There is a simple enough metaphor running through the heart of this alternately frustrating and picturesque film. It is that love and passion is a nuclear reaction. It can also be a sickness, inspired by this most fear inducing of energy so...