violence, and more violence

Saw a black man randomly get attacked by a couple of drunk Arab/North African? guys in a pretty nice part of Paris -- the guy seemed to be ok, but it was so weird to see this happen right in front of a movie theater with hundreds of people around. Seems they were just looking for a fight. By the time my friends and I got over to where it was happening the guys, including the black guy, all ran off, chasing each other down the street. I don't think they caught the guys, but I'm now an incoherent witness in the French police department computers.

Speaking of a movie theater, I saw 13 (Tzameti) tonight. I think some of you will love this movie if it ever makes it out of the festival circuit in the US. This 22 yo roof worker guy gets caught up in an insane tournament where jaded rich old farts gamble with the lives of hapless souls who need the money. The craziest Russian roulette game you've ever seen.

Trailer here. Quicktime required. C'mon Matt, just install it. It's worth it.

Reminds me of Intacto, but way more insane. Hey Sabrina, I saw this with you in Berkeley a few years ago, right?

Here's the blurb from the website 13themovie.com:

"A clean-faced 20-year-old, Sebastien, leads an impoverished life with his immigrant family, constantly struggling to find the money for their next meal. When hired to repair the roof of the morphine-addicted Godon (Philippe Passon), Sebastien eavesdrops in on a conversation which appears to offer a quick and easy solution to his money troubles.

When Godon suddenly falls dead Sebastien decides to follow the instructions, meant for the recently deceased addict, in a desperate bit to secure some income for himself and his family.

He then becomes embroiled in what appears to be a wild goose chase, taking on the identity of Godon and following a series of clues which lead him ever closer to his impending fate. The trail eventually leads Sebastien into the heart of the French countryside and face to face with a ring of clandestine gamblers who bet on human lives. From this point on there is no turning back."