Sauvage (Wild)(2018)

“Sauvage” (also known as “Wild” in English) is a 2018 French drama film directed by Camille Vidal-Naquet. The film follows the story of a young male prostitute named Leo (played by Félix Maritaud) who works the streets of Strasbourg, France. Leo’s life is characterized by loneliness, poverty, drug use, and risky sexual encounters. He is constantly searching for love and affection but finds it difficult to form meaningful connections with others.

Despite the challenges he faces, Leo continues to pursue his dangerous and unpredictable lifestyle. Along the way, he meets a variety of clients, some of whom are kind and caring while others are violent and abusive. Throughout the film, Leo’s journey is depicted in a raw and unflinching manner, and the film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of his life.

“Sauvage” received critical acclaim for its powerful performances and sensitive portrayal of a marginalized and often stigmatized community. Félix Maritaud‘s performance in particular was widely praised, and the film won several awards at international film festivals. However, some critics also raised concerns about the potential glorification of risky behavior and the potential for the film to be triggering for those with a history of trauma.