Released in October 2023, the French fantasy drama *Le Règne animal* quickly gained acclaim for its daring storyline and captivating performances by Romain Duris, Paul Kircher, and Adèle Exarchopoulos. Set in a world where people are transforming into animals, the film follows François’s desperate quest to save his wife and son. This César award-winning feature blends family drama with sci-fi elements, exploring themes of humanity and animality, while impressing audiences with its stunning effects and emotional depth.
The French fantasy drama made waves upon its release in October 2023, quickly earning its place among the year’s best films. ‘Le Règne animal,’ anchored by superb performances from Romain Duris, Paul Kircher, and Adèle Exarchopoulos, showcases a unique and daring narrative that embodies the essence of French cinema.
This César award-winning film, which boasts a viewer rating of 3.9 out of 5, presents a striking depiction of a France where a segment of the population undergoes animal mutations. In this altered reality, as individuals gradually transform into animals, François fights to rescue his wife, who has been affected by this enigmatic phenomenon. As the region fills with these new creatures, he embarks on a poignant journey with their 16-year-old son, Émile, irrevocably changing their lives.
Directed by Thomas Cailley, who gained recognition for the acclaimed ‘Les Combattants’ (2014), ‘Le Règne animal’ delivers an ambitious and captivating fusion of family drama, science fiction, and fantasy. The film raises deep questions about human animality, lineage, and connections, while its impressive special effects and realistic creature designs pull audiences into a breathtaking spectacle that is often humorous, yet profoundly moving.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
For viewers who have seen the film, it is clear that Émile (Paul Kircher) undergoes a gradual transformation into an animal, mirroring his mother’s experience. As the gendarmerie closes in, François (Romain Duris) faces a heart-wrenching decision: to permit his son to join his mother in the wilderness, all while tears cascade down his face as he watches Émile walk away.
But are you aware of the film’s alternate ending? There is an omitted sequence that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and is featured in the DVD extras. If you’re eager to learn more, keep reading for a summary.
This alternate conclusion unfolds a year after the original ending, with François visiting the gendarmerie for a required check-in. While out with his dog, he stumbles upon an “integral biological reserve,” suggesting a newfound tranquility for humans transformed into animals. Viewers witness François inside the reserve alongside Naïma (Saadia Bentaïeb), who tenderly pets a walrus man swimming nearby. Among the scenes, Nina (Billie Blain) can be seen howling at the edge of the reserve, possibly calling out for Émile.
Meanwhile, Julia (Adèle Exarchopoulos) appears to be affected as well, displaying scales on her skin while stationed on a lookout tower in the reserve. She hears howls and cries from the woods, which François hears as well, leading him to smile with recognition; he knows those cries belong to his son.
This alternate ending offers a fresh perspective worth exploring: discover these never-before-seen (and complimentary) images that transform the narrative…
Check out the bonus scene now!
‘Le Règne animal’ is available for viewing on VOD.