a review of 贝尔吉卡

Belgica is the second film by the Flemish director Felix van Groeningen I've seen, and I'm now officially a fan. The first film was The Broken Circle Breakdown, which also really impressed me. Belgica is the story of two brothers who decide to expand a small cafe to a larger bar/dancing in Flanders. The younger brother is the more sensitive and sensible one, the other is a charismatic troublemaker. The bar quickly grows in popularity, the cash flows in, and the seductions of cheating and drug abuse lurk around the corner. Belgica's drama buildup is outstanding, as is the acting and the cinematography. The music that is played in the bar is also fantastic. The soundtrack was created by the great Flemish band Soulwax. Belgica perfectly radiates the atmosphere of partying like there's no tomorrow. The vibe is contagious, and makes you want to go out and party yourself. As far as I'm concerned, Felix van Groeningen is a modern maestro.