In the Beginning is a French comedy-drama released in 2009, directed by Xavier Giannoli. The film stars François Cluzet as Paul, a skilled conman who poses as the manager of a construction site, building a highway extension. He dupes everyone in the region and enjoys the profits of his scam.
Paul leads a team of dozens of workers, decorates his trailer with luxurious furnishing, and seduces the local women. However, when he meets the female mayor of a small village, he feels drawn to her.
The mayor, played by Emmanuelle Devos, is suspicious of Paul and his intentions. However, she is also curious about him, as he is charming and intelligent. As Paul spends more time in the village, he begins to feel a connection to the people, including the workers he has duped.
Paul starts to question his life of crime and deceit and wonders if he can change. He finds himself becoming attached to the village and the people in it, particularly the mayor.
As Paul struggles with his feelings, he must also deal with the consequences of his scam. His lies are uncovered, and the workers he has hired demand their wages. Paul must come to terms with himself and decide if he will continue with his life of crime or make a change and try to right his wrongs.
In the Beginning is a heartfelt and entertaining film that explores the themes of redemption and self-discovery. The film won the FIPRESCI prize at the Venice Film Festival, and François Cluzet received critical acclaim for his performance as the lead character, Paul.
