The quinqui film genre is something eminently Spanish, or at least that’s what we believe. However, the truth is that if we take a look at any other European country, we realize they have their own films in this style, especially when we focus on France. The birthplace of cinema made it clear with the Nouvelle Vague that another way of making films is possible, and to this day, they continue to push this idea to the limit.
Just two years ago, one of the best films of this kind was released in France, “Titane,” which brought director Julia Ducournau to worldwide fame. And now, another debut director is capturing the audience’s attention. Her name is Lola Quivoron, and the specific film is “Rodeo.”
Rodeo, a movie about motorcycles and suburbs
When we talk about “quinqui” cinema, we’re referring to down-to-earth and dramatic stories set in the suburbs, and in this context, “Rodeo” fits perfectly. The movie tells the story of Julia, a misfit young woman who gets by through small-scale dealings. Julia possesses a voracious, almost animalistic passion for motorcycling, leading her into more than one mess because of this hobby.
One summer day, Julia encounters a group of bikers passionate about asphalt motocross, a trend involving high-speed driving and acrobatic maneuvers on motorcycles, often without helmets. Gradually, the protagonist infiltrates this clandestine universe, primarily made up of young boys, until an accident jeopardizes her position within the gang.
The movie has been a real surprise in France, and now it’s starting its international journey from festivals to commercial theaters. Undoubtedly, it’s a strong proposition that will bring Lola Quivoron’s name into the spotlight.
