Denis Lavant provides a strong performance within this impactful look back at the soldier "Galoup." Director Claire Denis, who previously set a story with her French regiment in Djibouti, now presents a deliberately unhurried yet successful exploration of his memories from that time, as he reflects on how his structured life slowly unravels due to an attraction to the newly arrived recruit “Sentain” (Grègoire Colin), who is self-assured and graceful. The visuals are remarkable, and so is the sense of monotony in their rather unremarkable daily lives. Much of their time is spent, essentially, eliminating threats! Their well-developed physiques are often visible under the constant sun – while they wash and iron clothes – and near the blue ocean. Mostly, they seem simply restless! It's possibly this boredom that contributes to the growing unease experienced by "Galoup" and his superior officer (Michel Subor). There’s a level of brutality present, both physical and mental, which is effectively portrayed as the narrative progresses gradually but clearly, and in an unexpected way. This isn’t a romance in the conventional sense; however, there's fondness and feeling to be found, and I began to understand "Galoup" a bit better, finding myself drawn into his situation. The music also plays a significant role – not as a typical soundtrack, but enhancing the images and taking the place of dialogue that is restrained and purposeful. It unfolds slowly, but I appreciated it.

Source on TMDB