Les Rivi

Mathieu Kassovitz is probably one of the best directors in the world today.When I saw L'haine, his 1995 film, I was shocked by the evidence ofAmerican influence on French cinema. Not that I hadn't noticed it before --it's quite obvious -- but this time, I was shocked because of the wayKassovitz uses it without hesitation and without apology, as if to say,"Hey, this is reality, deal with it!" Yes, cultural imperialism comes inhumor, too, re: a L'haine scene when Vinz does a damned good impression ofRobert De Niro with gangsta attitude! What is most impressive aboutKassovitz's films are the underlying themes of respect for human diversityand of embracing change. His most recent film, Les Rivi