The Strange Case Of Jacky Caillou is the feature-length debut of co-writer/director Lucas Delangle and co-writer Olivier Strauss. The film combines faith healing, familial drama, and lycanthropy. Yes, that’s right: religion and werewolves go hand in hand. Do the filmmakers make it work or get bogged down in their admittedly original idea?
Jacky Caillou (Thomas Parigi) lives with his grandma, Gisèle Caillou (Edwige Blondiau), in a small village in the French Alps. She’s a well-known healer in the area and tries to teach her grandson the rituals of her ways. Unfortunately, Gisèle’s death leaves a void that Jacky is hesitant to fill. But then Elsa (Lou Lampros) shows up at his stoop with a mysterious rash. She enthralls Jacky and vows to help Elsa as best he can. However, it soon becomes apparent that the rash is brought on by something Elsa transforms into, something that lurks inside her that she cannot control.
“…becomes apparent that the rash is brought on by something Elsa transforms into…”
The Strange Case Of Jacky Caillou is a slow-burn character drama, so anyone expecting a full-blown horror outing will be disappointed. But the film is not selling itself that way, so that should hardly be an issue. The way Delangle and Strauss layer faith with ancient folklore is mesmerizing. Seeing how Jacky believes he can help Elsa and her happiness at the rash dissipating provides an emotional resonance that sneaks up viewers. As the leads grow closer, a feeling of inescapable dread also creeps up. This is because of Elsa’s condition, which is a form of werewolfism, and the impending doom it brings.
The cast does a lot of the heavy lifting here. Parigi is perfect as the reserved but hopeful titular character. Lampros is engaging and captivating, making her desire to be healed and control her wild animal all the more relatable. The cinematography also makes a lasting impression. Nature encroaches upon the village with reckless abandon. The haunting vistas make for a beautiful film while also reinforcing the themes at play.
The Strange Case Of Jacky Caillou is a very different take on the werewolf subgenre. The way it mixes religion and folklore is fascinating. The acting is incredible, and the visuals are awe-inspiring.
