From Monday September 6th, in line with government guidelines, all patrons must show proof of vaccination upon entering the cinema screen.

Almost all dialogue is sung in this long-awaited musical from director Leos Carax (Holy Motors) and writers Ron and Russell Mael of the band Sparks. Opera singer Ann (Marion Cotillard) and stand-up comedian Henry (Adam Driver) clearly “…Love Each Other So Much” which we see from the outset and in the aforenamed duet, however Henry’s confrontational and provocative nature seems to be more than just an on-stage persona. While events such as the birth of their unusual offspring Annette and Ann’s increasing professional success play out in song, so too does Henry’s darker side with devastating and bizarre consequences for all.

Winning Carax Best Director at Cannes earlier this year, Annette is a long and wild ride that may not be for everyone but it’s clear from the contagious and memorable opener “So May We Start” (where filmmakers and cast walk and sing us into the film) that everyone had a lot of fun making it.

Notes by Saidhbh Ní Dhúlaing