A local militia against the big oil corporations and corrupt authority; a migrant from Belarus seeking to become a french by serving in the infamous French foreign region. Just from the setting, the film could have turned out to be an intense drama - a criticism on imperialism and exploitation, or deep psychological drama of moral conflicts. But 'Disco Boy' uses such subject matters as the ground to create a (rather moody) mood piece than actually getting into the drama.

The film carefully veers around what could easily have been violent and shocking - the death of a friend, training process of the Foreign Region, a village burnt down... -, and chooses to only hint them through more artistic compositions and camera techniques (the fight scene between 2 protagonists entirely shown as the first person view through Alex's thermal scope vision being the most clear example).

The overall result is artistically impressive and hauntingly moody... but also vague and pretentious. The story of 2 men, who had to play tough and do things against their nature just to survive in the world, only to be ultimately consumed by the ruthless system... could have been more gripping and gritty. But they become more like characters in a fable or rather fantastical tale in this film. To me, it feels like they are further exploited, this time by the artistic ambition of the director.

"Disco Boy" is a beautifully psychedelic film that takes viewers on a unique and thought-provoking journey. The plot, which weaves together the stories of Aleksei and Jomo in the midst of their personal struggles, offers deep symbolic meanings that encourage introspection about one's existence, regrets, and disillusionment.

This movie is undeniably arty and not for everyone. Its abstract storytelling and rich symbolism may challenge some viewers, but for those willing to dive into its enigmatic narrative, "Disco Boy" offers a rewarding experience.

One standout aspect of the film is the incredible soundtrack by Vitalic, which adds another layer of immersion to the already mesmerizing visuals. The music enhances the overall atmosphere and emotion of the film, making it an auditory delight.

Franz Rogowski's performance in the film is nothing short of extraordinary. His portrayal of Aleksei is both captivating and emotionally charged, adding depth to the character and the overall narrative. His acting truly elevates the movie to another level.

In conclusion, "Disco Boy" is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating film that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling. With its symbolic themes, exceptional soundtrack, and Franz Rogowski's outstanding acting, it's a cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impression on those who appreciate artistry in film.