20/04/2013 - First film of French screenwriter and director Alain Minier supported by Cineuropa's partner, the Eye on Film Label

Inspired by a true story, this French thriller is also a sociological study that depicts the reality of the Menilmontant neighbourhood, with its life force and difficulties. By following the evolution of a gang of idle young boys who cross Jo's path, the film also evokes the rapid development of delinquency at a very young age. Thus Jo's Neighbourhood [+see also:
trailer
film profile] is a film that encourages us to reflect upon our own society and responsibilities: it makes us realise that each person is responsible of his/her own deeds, in particular of those involving others. Jo's Neighbourhood is also a film that confront opposites: old timers and the new generation, old memories and habits with today's new codes, nostalgia and the act of moving forward. Finally, the desire of a fresh start and to find his own place is what guides Jo throughout his journey.

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Jo's Neighbourhood is a film led by the French duo Smaïn/Olivier Marchal, and directed by Alain Minier, an unsual team that deserves some attention. Alain Minier grew up in Ménilmontant, a neighbourhood that has now become a source of inspiration to him. His first short dates back to 1991. Among the short films he has directed several were selected at festivals. Aside from making movies, Alain Minier is also a screenwriter and comedian. Jo's Neighborhood, is his first feature film as a filmmaker. Smaïn is a French comedian, but first and foremost a popular humorist specialized in one-man-shows. Olivier Marchal is a former police officer who first became a screenwriter for TV series, then for cinema. He is also the director of the well-known French thriller 36 quai des Orfèvres [+see also:
trailer
film profile].

Jo's Neighbourhood was released in French cinemas in March 2013.