Elyas
Elyas is a 2024 French action-thriller directed by Florent-Emilio Siri, known for his work on films such as Hostage and L’Ennemi intime. The film centers around the character Elyas, portrayed with quiet intensity by Roschdy Zem. A former Special Forces soldier, Elyas is tormented by memories of a brutal mission in Afghanistan and now lives in isolation, paranoid and emotionally distant from the world around him. His solitary life is disrupted when he reluctantly accepts a job protecting a woman named Amina and her 13-year-old daughter, Nour.
Set in rural France, the story begins with a seemingly straightforward security assignment, but quickly evolves into a gripping fight for survival. Amina and Nour are the targets of a mysterious commando group for reasons initially unknown to Elyas. As danger draws closer, he is forced to shake off his internal demons and revive the combat instincts he has tried to bury. What follows is a tense, action-packed struggle in which Elyas must defend the family while coming to terms with his own past trauma and guilt.
The strength of the film lies in its balance between emotion and action. Roschdy Zem gives a layered performance, embodying a man who is both dangerous and deeply wounded. His portrayal is restrained yet powerful, capturing Elyas’s internal conflict without needing lengthy exposition. As the narrative unfolds, the bond that develops between Elyas and Nour becomes central to the story, giving the film a strong emotional core beneath the violence. Jeanne Michel, who plays Nour, brings a natural and compelling presence to the screen, adding depth to what could have been a simple supporting role.
Director Florent-Emilio Siri crafts the film with style and precision. The action sequences are taut and realistic, grounded in tactical detail rather than exaggerated spectacle. The cinematography emphasizes shadow and tension, making the isolated setting feel both beautiful and claustrophobic. The visuals are complemented by a moody score and tight editing, which maintain suspense without overwhelming the character development.
While Elyas has been praised for its serious tone and mature approach to the genre, it has also drawn some criticism for being too familiar in its structure. Comparisons to films like Man on Fire and Taken are inevitable, as the narrative features a brooding protector, a vulnerable child, and relentless enemies. However, the film distinguishes itself by focusing more on psychological depth and the lingering effects of war, rather than relying solely on revenge-driven spectacle.
Thematically, Elyas explores trust, redemption, and the lasting scars of violence. It avoids romanticizing its protagonist’s violent past and instead questions the cost of survival, not just physically but emotionally. The story unfolds with a deliberate pace, allowing the characters to breathe even in the midst of chaos.
In conclusion, Elyas is a gripping and thoughtful action thriller that offers more than just gunfights and chase scenes. It is a film about broken people trying to protect what little good remains in a dangerous world. Anchored by Roschdy Zem’s compelling performance and directed with care and intensity, it stands out as one of the more emotionally resonant European thrillers of recent years.
