by Hudson Moura
Ricardo Trogi’s 1995 bursts with frenetic energy, brilliantly capturing the chaotic personality of its main character—Trogi himself—portrayed by his on-screen alter ego Jean-Carl Boucher, who reprises his role from Trogi’s earlier autobiographical films 1981, 1987, and 1991. The film’s dynamic pacing mirrors the protagonist’s restless, hyperactive nature, pulling viewers into a whirlwind of emotions and capturing the intensity of Trogi’s formative experiences.
One of the standout elements of the film is the off-screen narration, which serves as a character in its own right. The narrator’s distinct Quebecois accent adds a poignant layer to the film, grounding it in the region’s rich cultural landscape. This narrative voice lends the film a unique texture, enhancing the viewing experience.
It’s a delight to enter Trogi’s anxious, schizophrenic, and stimulating world. Fans of his previous films will find familiar territory here. In 1995, Trogi shifted focus to his time participating in Radio-Canada’s popular 90s show La Course, which sent young filmmakers across the world to make films. This nostalgic era exploration is a vibrant backdrop for Trogi’s personal and creative journey.
The film is filled with humorous clichés, including an extended, laugh-out-loud sequence depicting Egyptian bureaucracy and another about Belgians, highlighting Trogi’s knack for turning the mundane into moments of comedic brilliance. Wherever Trogi goes, the world’s absurdity follows, capturing travel and bureaucracy’s universal frustrations and idiosyncrasies.
At its core, 1995 poses an important question: Why do we make films? Trogi doesn’t seek to create masterpieces but offers a more personal perspective, perhaps as a tribute to someone or oneself. This becomes particularly clear in the film’s final sequence, where a girl in a red veil dances in the desert—a moment connected to a heartfelt phone call from Trogi’s father. In this poignant exchange, his father congratulates and urges him not to give up. This emotional connection stands out as one of the most touching moments in the film, underscoring the personal stakes in Trogi’s filmmaking journey.
The strength of 1995 lies in its coming-of-age narrative and its ethnographic approach to Quebecois culture. The film overflows with fresh and vibrant energy with authentic Quebec expressions, settings, and themes, offering an explosive display of Quebecois identity. It far surpasses the overused Italian clichés often seen in cinema. Trogi’s depiction of his cultural roots feels genuine and vibrant, offering a window into Quebec life in a humorous and deeply reflective way.
1995 will open the 2024 Cinéfranco—Festival International du Film Francophone from November 1 to 10, at the Carlton Cinema in Toronto. This delightful film is a must-see for anyone interested in Quebec’s rich cultural tapestry or Ricardo Trogi’s captivating storytelling.