Long synopsis : Two brothers, born in France of Arab descent, their grandfather killed serving in the French army, their father a quiet, law-abiding “model immigrant”. Paul Smaïl, 27. Intelligent, highly educated, full of unexpressed anger, he spends his time reading, dreaming, boxing... His younger brother Daniel, rebellious yet fragile, a body-builder who shapes his flesh relentlessly, building his muscles, punishing his body until it kills him. Daniel and Paul carry their double culture as a burden. For them, it is impossible to be integrated into French society without deforming themselves, intellectually and physically. Paul is crazy about literature and Myriam, his “blonde princess”. He lives in a slum, in a single room, and delivers pizzas while he waits. But for what? Only words can save him from his rage and self-hatred, the words of his unfinished novel, “Life Kills Me,” the book that will help him to live.

Cast

• Sami Bouajila, Jalil Lespert, Sylvie Testud, Simon Bakinde, Roger Ibáñez, Teco Celio

Crew

• Producer(s): Fabienne Servan-Schreiber
• Director(s): Jean-Pierre Sinapi
• Screenplay: Jack-Alain Léger, Jean-Pierre Sinapi, Daniel Tonachella
• DP: Pierre Aïm
• Editing: Catherine Schwartz
• Costume Designer: Eve-Marie Arnault

• Original Title: VIVRE ME TUE
• Genre(s): Drama


• Production company: CINETEVE
• Production date: 2002
• Language: French
• Duration: 92 min