A Cinematic Allegory by Alice Rohrwacher and JR in an imaginative fusion of cinema and philosophy.
Dr. Marco Tassini
Young Jay’s journey through Paris serves as a metaphor for the broader quest to understand the nature of reality versus illusion. The film vividly illustrates how images – whether in the form of shadows or tangible objects – can distort or reveal truth. Jay, guided by a theatrical revelation from Leos Carax, becomes the first to break free from the cave and distinguish between ephemeral shadows and solid, real images. The film’s portrayal of Jay navigating the bustling metropolis highlights Rohrwacher and JR’s attempt to peel back the layers of urban noise to expose the underlying truths of contemporary life. Through Jay’s innocent yet insightful perspective, Allégorie Citadine transforms into a powerful call for liberation from the confines of illusion. The short poignantly addresses the isolation that accompanies the pursuit of truth. Once Jay escapes the cave, he finds himself in a realm unseen by those still ensnared by the urban shadows.
Alice Rohrwacher and JR
His existential query – “Would the others believe him?” – underscores the futility of possessing profound knowledge that cannot be shared or utilized by others to escape their own illusions.
Rohrwacher and JR’s interpretation of the Platonic myth extends beyond the individual quest for enlightenment to a social and communal dimension. They propose that no one can achieve salvation in isolation. To ignite even a flicker of revolution, it is essential to spread the flame of understanding and share the insights gained from breaking free of the metaphorical cave. Allégorie Citadine is an adept synthesis of Rohrwacher and JR’s artistic philosophies. Their film reflects a humanistic approach to cinema and art, placing a high value on both individual and collective human experiences. By integrating different methods to convey their shared vision, they underscore the notion that art should not be elitist but rather accessible to communities. This approach transforms art from a tool of exploitation to a means of active engagement and creative expression. The film emerges as an urban fairy tale, rich with Rohrwacher’s characteristic symbolism and allegory. Eschewing pastoral and ethereal backdrops, it instead reveals the urban landscape in all its complexity and imperfections. Through a mystically charged perspective, Allégorie Citadine exposes the scars and vibrant life of the city, turning it into a canvas of creativity and resistance.
This project was produced with the support of CHANEL, continuing the fashion house’s long-standing connection to the world of cinema. Gabrielle Chanel, founder of the iconic brand, was a pioneer in forging creative relationships with some of the most influential filmmakers of her time. From her collaborations with directors like Luchino Visconti and Michelangelo Antonioni to today’s support for directors such as Leos Carax, Wim Wenders, and Maïwenn, CHANEL’s legacy is deeply intertwined with cinematic artistry. The film also stars Lyna Khoudri, a CHANEL Ambassador, who plays a young dancer traversing the streets of Paris with a child (portrayed by Naïm El Kaldaoui). As they head to an audition where director Leos Carax awaits, the boy sets off on an adventure of his own, adding a layer of whimsy and discovery to the narrative. Allégorie citadine also incorporates scenes from JR’s Retour à la caverne (“Return to the Cave”), an ambitious public art installation that unfolded in two acts across Paris in 2023. The first act, in September, saw the façade of the Palais Garnier transformed with a monumental black-and-white trompe l’œil image of a cave. This dramatic visual, draped over the scaffolding of the Opera House during renovations, directly referenced Plato’s allegory, offering a reimagined perspective on the iconic building. The installation turned the construction site into a canvas for free public screenings, merging architecture and art in a thought-provoking display. The second act, which occurred in November, introduced a participatory element. Hundreds of handprints were embroidered onto the cave walls in collaboration with the artisans at Montex and visitors to the Mano Habilis workshop at the Galerie du 19M. This collective gesture symbolized the public’s engagement with the cave’s themes of knowledge and enlightenment.
The project culminated in an extraordinary performance titled “Chiroptera” choreographed by Damien Jalet with music by Thomas Bangalter. On November 12, 2023, 153 dancers performed atop the Palais Garnier’s scaffolding, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The performance featured Amandine Albisson, Prima Ballerina of the Paris Opera, as a soloist, who graced the stage wearing a stunning costume designed by CHANEL. The choreography, in sync with the allegory of the cave, underscored the dreamlike and surreal elements of the myth. With ALLÉGORIE CITADINE, Alice Rohrwacher and JR have crafted a thought-provoking cinematic experience that merges art, philosophy, and urban life. The film, a continuation of the Return to the Cave project, brings together the talents of some of the world’s most creative minds, from the visionary directors to the expert artisans of Paris. This extraordinary collaboration will be available to audiences on Arte.TV in November, offering viewers a chance to witness the culmination of this ambitious artistic endeavour.
