A multi-generational look at electronic music, with the added element of crime, all wrapped as a satirical comedy, awaits viewers in Netflix‘s offbeat film, Banger. For years, French art director So Me (Bertrand de Langeron) held a backstage pass to the dance scene through life in the studio, parties, and tours. So, what better way for him to lead his first feature film than by tapping into his extensive first-hand knowledge?
By developing a fictional DJ character, So Me aimed to share the humorous side of club culture, this time working with actors rather than art. Gaëlle Mareschi, head of production for French films at Netflix, realized its potential, greenlighting the film, with actor Vincent Cassel leading the film as DJ Scorpex, alongside Mister V, Laura Felpin, and Alexis Manenti. For an hour and a half of entertaining freshness, don’t sleep on this new crime comedy.
A Creative Vision with Fiction in Mind
In the vein of designer Saul Bass, So Me began his career in graphics and illustration as the artistic director for the Parisian record label Ed Banger Records, with elements peeping through in the poster design and visual touches of Banger, subtly paying homage to this distinctive artistic style. He built an impressive portfolio directing music videos for artists like MGMT and Kid Cudi and also co-directed the documentary A Cross The Universe with fellow director Romain Gavras, known for the critically acclaimed Athena, which chronicles Justice’s American tour. However, fully narrative-based filmmaking was calling.
So Me’s background in music videos and advertising is apparent in Banger’s energy that permeates every scene. Music fans rejoiced upon learning that Belgian electronic pioneers Soulwax were commissioned to create the soundtrack. This intriguing brief required the respected duo to inhabit the mindset of different characters and create the very music these characters would produce. They explain, “It was necessary to find the balance between cliché, quality and credibility.”
Related
Athena: An Intense Netflix Movie That Slipped Under the Radar
Athena is an impactful, thrilling French movie recently released on Netflix. Here is why it should get more recognition than it has received.
Ready to Join Operation BPM?
In a fast-paced environment with short attention spans, the art world is always searching for the next big thing, meaning we sometimes overlook quality, experience and quality. In Paris, DJ Scorpex (played by Cassel) is an established DJ (although he’s slightly cursed with one universal hit) who’s being forced to make way for the younger generation, particularly his rival, Vestex (Mister V).
Tax debt forces Scorpex to become an informant for narcotics agent Rose (Laura Felpin). His target, Vestex, has questionable ethics and is funded by organized criminals, and Scorpex must infiltrate the drug ring and identify its leader while protecting his twenty-something daughter Toni (Nina Zem) from danger. His industry connections help him befriend Vestex and the two unexpectedly bond. As they collaborate on music for a high-profile fashion show, Scorpex sees an opportunity to revive his career, which could push Vestex out of the limelight.
Related
Best Movies Set in the Fashion World, Ranked
These are movies set in the fashion world everyone should watch at least once.
Tip-Top Casting for ‘Banger’
The French entertainment realm is more than comfortable sending itself up and often does. Cassel did exactly this in the ridiculously funny show Fiasco, also on Netflix, where he played the demanding actor Robin Jacomet. In Banger, its unserious energy is its gift, where satire is used endearingly. Both are a little clueless at times, but the chemistry between the main characters is clear. Cassel, who made his way to Hollywood with roles in Black Swan (2010) and Ocean’s Thirteen (2007), surprisingly fits well alongside Mister V, a rapper, comedian, and successful YouTuber, capturing the generational nuances and different approaches to life.
Related
The 20 Greatest Vincent Cassel Movies, Ranked
With impressive performances and high-quality films under his belt, Vinnie Cas should be considered among the best actors to ever live.
Nicolas Muray (best known for Call My Agent) portrays Captain Dricus, inducing laughter through effortless expressions and subtle gestures. Laura Felpin delivers Agent Rose as a dry, quick-witted character, and Déborah Lukumuena’s creative Tabitha brings a sliver of diva. Drawing from years under the disco ball, So Me called on his bank of anecdotes: “Even if everything in the film is fictional, some characters, like Scorpex, are hybrids of several people I’ve encountered,” he says. Eagle-eyed viewers will spot cameos throughout by director Roman Gavras, music royalty Justice, real-life label boss Pedro Winter, and all-round creative Alice Moitié, among others.
The Universal Language of Beats and Melody
So Me’s Banger fills an underserved niche in the genre, using satire to illuminate the absurdities of the dance scene while maintaining genuine affection for its subjects. For those of a certain age who grew up in the electronic music universe, the film serves as a knowing wink at industry quirks. Yet viewers unfamiliar with DJ booths and after-parties can still connect with its human story of creative rebirth and redemption.
Related
Best Dance Movies That Will Get You on Your Feet
Here are the best dance movies of all time, ranked.
Banger is a highly entertaining ride filled with distinctly French humor that crosses cultural boundaries through the lens of the electronic music scene. Speaking directly to midlife professionals with “plenty left to give,” it delivers a canny, reassuring message that second acts are possible even in industries that often lean towards youth. You can watch Banger on Netflix through the link below:
Watch Banger
