Athena

The film depicts the outbreak of violence in a French housing project following the death of a young boy, Abdel. His brothers, Karim and Mokhtar, along with his friend Youssef, are caught in the escalating conflict between the police and residents. The narrative follows their struggle for justice and survival amidst the chaos and systemic issues plaguing their community.

Athena received considerable attention for its visceral intensity and ambitious filmmaking, though some critics found its narrative and themes less impactful than its visual style. It was praised for its technical prowess and potent depiction of social unrest.

• Praised for its visually stunning and kinetic filmmaking style.

• Noted for its powerful depiction of a community in crisis and police brutality.

• Some found the plot less compelling than the film's energetic execution.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's raw energy and intense visual presentation, with many highlighting its unflinching look at social issues. However, some viewers felt the story could have been more developed.

Nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

Director Romain Gavras famously staged a massive, real-life riot scene involving hundreds of extras in the Athena housing project for the film.