For those that like to look into a mystery of sorts that moves along at a nice pace gathering tidbits of a puzzle, the film Auction is now playing in select theaters around the country. The acting here is exceptional, the Paris France location captivating and the originality gratifying.
Andre Masson (Alex Lux) has a long list of exciting finds as an art authenticator. His intern Aurore (Louise Chevillotte) that has been assigned to him however, has the art wiz worried about keeping up with his success of finding product to be auctioned. Included in the drama is Andre’s ex-wife/art appraiser Bertina (Léa Drucker) who would like nothing more than to see him fail; or better still, provide her with leads to valuable art. When a famous painting assumed to have been destroyed during World War II turns up in the hands of Arcadi (Martin Keller), a low paid Parisian chemical plant worker, a duel for the prize takes place.
Directed and co-writer Pascal Bonitzer takes his filmmaking to Paris France where he utilizes the City of Lights as his playground for intrigue and a stealth drama. Moving his players against the backdrop, he shows the finesse and his wits of the art and auction business pushing for the highest bids from the buyer’s pit. Very good camerawork coupled with some witty dialogue keeps the intrigue on edge with an interwoven comical touch.
Auction has not been rated by the MPAA, but contains some rude conversation and adult situations. In French with English Subtitles, check out a theater near you. Now playing in Florida at Movies of Delray, Movies of Lake Worth, and the Coral Gables Art Cinema in Miami. For foreign film lovers and French Speaking cinephiles it’s your best entertainment bet.
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Alex Lutz, Lea Drucker, Nora Hamzawl, Louse Chevillotte,
Directed and co-written by: Pascal Bonitzer
Genre: French, Comedy, Drama
Language: French with English Subtitles
MPAA Rating: Not Rated, contains language, some adult content
Running Time: 1 hr. 31 min.
Opening Date: December 5, 2025
Distributed by: Menemsha
Released in: Theaters
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
