“Baxter 1989” is a French film about a bull terrier named Baxter who longs for a new owner. However, after being abandoned and adopted by a cruel and disturbed couple, he becomes a killer driven by his own primal instincts. Through Baxter’s eyes, we see the darkest and most brutal sides of humanity as he navigates his way through life as man’s best friend turned deadly weapon. The film does not shy away from showing the horrors that animals can face in society when they are mistreated or misunderstood.
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Review
In the small town of Châlons-sur-Saône, France, there is a dog named Baxter. He is a beautiful and elegant white bull terrier with black spots on his ears. He lives with his loving family, who treats him like a prince, however, Baxter is far from being a loyal pet.
The 1989 French psychological thriller film “Baxter” directed by Jérôme Boivin revolves around the story of this mischievous dog who has an intense desire to kill. The film is an adaptation of “Baxter, king of dogs”, written by Michel Tournier, the novel that explores the thoughts and feelings of this murderous dog.
The beginning scene sets the tone for the entire film as we see Baxter lethally attacking an adorable little bird while his owners are out for dinner. The camera focuses on the bloody massacre while Baxter narrates in deep contemplation about his experience.
“I had done nothing wrong,” he says. “I had no other choice but to kill.” It’s clear that Baxter does not see himself as evil; he believes he is simply doing what comes naturally to him.
As we delve further into the mind of this complex canine character, we see how he starts to develop dark relationships with humans who have murderous tendencies themselves. He is taken in by a homeless man and his accomplices who use him as their hunting dog and teach him how to kill more efficiently. With each new owner comes a new level of violence.
Throughout the film, Baxter remains our narrator and as we see through his eyes what atrocities humans can inflict upon one another. It’s difficult at times not to sympathize with him since despite his sociopathic tendencies; he arrives across as very likable.
One thing that’s particularly interesting about “Baxter” is how it takes such a familiar animal – one that is usually thought of as man’s best friend – and turns it into a predator. The film examines the nature of violence and how it’s not just limited to humans.
The performances from the cast are top-notch, but it’s unquestionably Lise Delamare as Madame Deville, Baxter’s original owner and first love who stands out. Her adoration for Baxter is palpable, and the two have an almost romantic connection. Since her character is blind, she sees Baxter with her heart instead of her eyes and their scenes together are incredibly sweet.
While “Baxter,” may not be a film for animal lovers due to its graphic depictions of violence, it’s undoubtedly a unique work of art in every sense. It is visually stunning and has a poetic yet macabre feel to it that sticks with you long after viewing.
One of the most notable aspects of the movie is its score by Etienne Perruchon, which adds an extra layer of depth. The strings complement Baxter’s internal monologue perfectly at various moments.
The cinematography by Bernard Zitzermann is equally exceptional. From the wide shots in the countryside to close-ups on Baxter’s face, every aspect of this film has been executed with precision and artistic flair.
The film had limited screenings when it was first released in France but went on to attain cult status over time and remains cherished among fans today. “Baxter” has won several awards at international festivals, including Best Director at Fant-Asia Film Festival in 1990.
The drama received positive reviews from critics as well who praised Baxster’s unique take on violence and its seductive portrayal of pure evilness in one captivating story arc.
In conclusion, “Baxter” is one-of-a-kind thriller that delves deep into human nature through its portrayal of an amoral dog that finds joy in killing. Its haunting visuals combined with mesmerizing performances create an unforgettable cinematic experience that will stay with you long after viewing it.
Technical Data
- Release : 1989-01-18
- Runtime : 82
- Genre : Horror, Drama, Comedy
- Cast : Lise Delamare as Madame Deville, Jean Mercure as Monsieur Cuzzo, Jacques Spiesser as Michel Ferrer, Catherine Ferran as Florence Morel, Sabrina Leurquin as Noelle
- Crew : Jacques Audiard as Screenplay, Jacques Audiard as Dialogue, Véronique Melery as Set Decoration, Ariel Zeitoun as Producer, Patrick Godeau as Producer
- Revenue : 0
- Budget : 0
- Company : Partner’s Productions, Alicéléo, Christian Bourgois Productions
- Popularity : 5.585
- Summary : A white Bull Terrier named Baxter is given to an elderly woman by her daughter. As time passes, the dog develops aggressive and murderous behavior in order to be adopted by another family.
- Tagline : Beware of the dog who thinks.
