Unleashing the Fantastical World of She Is Conann: A Glittering Journey of Gender-Bending and Poetic Dialogue

With a clear and propulsive story arc, She Is Conann takes us on a captivating journey through the life and loves of barbarian queen Conann. From her violent introduction to her ascension as an aged matriarch, we witness her transformation through different phases of her existence.

Each phase of Conann’s life is portrayed by a new actor, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. From the braggadocious warrior to the love-drunk stuntwoman flung through time, the performances bring Conann’s character to life in vivid detail.

One character that remains consistent throughout Conann’s journey is Rainer, a perverse dog-faced oracle who serves as narrator and taskmaster. Rainer’s presence adds a touch of mystique and delivers some of the film’s most memorable lines, reminding Conann of her commitment to barbarism.

She Is Conann embraces a queer-coded sensibility, with Sapphic undertones and a celebration of fluid sexuality. The film’s fantasy aesthetic, adorned with glitter and tall, sculpted women wielding broadswords, creates an outsider feel that places it firmly in the realm of queer art.

The production design and cinematography of She Is Conann further enhance its immersive world. From the early scenes filled with tangled hair and ragged fake snow to the cocaine decor of Conann and Sanja’s NYC apartment, every detail adds to the film’s unique visual language.

She Is Conann is not for the faint of heart, as it embraces stylized gore in a pointedly artistic way. The film’s commitment to depicting barbarism is evident in its portrayal of split corpses and bloody, beating hearts. This stylized violence adds to the film’s overall impact and reinforces its themes.

Towards the end, She Is Conann takes a self-reflexive turn, delving into satirical commentary. The choice between cannibalism and poverty presented to a group of artists is both unsettling and thought-provoking. This scene adds an extra layer of depth to the film’s exploration of societal norms and artistic expression.

In conclusion, She Is Conann is Bertrand Mandico’s best work to date. It showcases his artistic vision, from the poetic dialogue to the gender-bending characters and the mesmerizing use of glitter. With its fantastical world, captivating performances, and thought-provoking themes, She Is Conann is a cinematic masterpiece that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions.