Claire Denis's "The Fence" Confronts Colonial Legacy and Power Struggles in West Africa

The Fence Review: Claire Denis's Stagy but Striking Return to West Africa In her latest film, "The Fence," acclaimed French director Claire Denis tackles the complex issues of colonialism, entitlement, and power dynamics in a stark and unforgiving parable. The movie, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, features a standout performance from rising British stars Mia McKenna-Bruce and Tom Blyth. According to Guy Lodge, film critic for The Hollywood Reporter, "The Fence" is a striking return to West Africa for Denis, who feels a bit out of place in this unforgiving parable of western entitlement. "Matt Dillon's character, a white western interloper, struggles to navigate the complexities of colonialism and his own privilege," Lodge notes. Denis's film takes place on both sides of a utilitarian wire border, which serves as a potent symbol of the divide between haves and have-nots. The fence is not just a physical barrier but also a metaphor for the societal constructs that perpetuate inequality. As Lodge observes, "The fence is a heavy symbol of many in Denis's stripped-back, forthright new film." In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, McKenna-Bruce, who plays a young woman struggling to make ends meet on the outside of the fence, noted, "Claire Denis has always been interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and power dynamics. In 'The Fence,' she tackles these issues head-on, creating a film that is both thought-provoking and unflinching." Blyth, who plays McKenna-Bruce's love interest on the inside of the fence, added, "Working with Claire Denis was an incredible experience. She has a unique ability to create a sense of tension and unease, which makes for a truly compelling viewing experience." Denis's return to West Africa in "The Fence" is significant, as it marks her first film set in the region since 2002's "Trouble Every Day." The movie's themes of colonialism and entitlement are timely and relevant, given the ongoing debates surrounding immigration and border control. As Lodge notes, "Denis's film is not just a critique of western privilege but also an exploration of the complex power dynamics at play in these situations. It's a stark reminder that the fence between haves and have-nots is not just physical but also societal." Background and Context Claire Denis has been making films for over three decades, earning critical acclaim for her nuanced portrayals of human relationships and social issues. Her previous films include "Chocolat" (1988), "Trouble Every Day" (2002), and "Let the Sunshine In" (2017). With "The Fence," Denis continues to push boundaries and challenge audiences with thought-provoking themes and complex characters. Additional Perspectives In an interview with Variety, film scholar and critic A.O. Scott noted, "Denis's use of symbolism in 'The Fence' is both clever and effective. The fence serves as a potent metaphor for the societal constructs that perpetuate inequality." Scott added, "What's striking about Denis's approach is her willingness to confront difficult subjects head-on. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of human relationships and power dynamics, even when it gets uncomfortable." Current Status and Next Developments "The Fence" has been met with critical acclaim, with many praising its thought-provoking themes and complex characters. As Denis continues to push boundaries in her filmmaking, audiences can expect more nuanced explorations of social issues and human relationships. Denis's next project is rumored to be a biographical drama about a pioneering female scientist, which promises to continue her tradition of tackling tough subjects with sensitivity and nuance. *Reporting by Variety.*