Streaming service Prime Video is currently hosting a critically adored gangster film that many are hailing as a genuine masterpiece of contemporary cinema. For viewers who may have missed it during its theatrical run or are seeking a substantial crime drama, ‘A Prophet’ (‘Un Prophète’) represents an essential watch.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Praise
The film boasts an impressive 96% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 89% score on the Popcornmeter. User reviews on platforms like IMDb consistently shower it with top marks, with many describing it as a near-perfect cinematic experience.
One 9/10 review summarised the collective sentiment, stating: “At times hard to watch but in the end you come out with the feeling of having watched a masterpiece. Perfect acting, scenario, directing, cinematography & sound…”
Another reviewer highlighted the film's unique tone, noting the balance between “harsh and brutal” prison realism and more “lyrical moments” that explore the protagonist's inner life. This duality, they argued, is what elevates the film to “true masterpiece status.”
The lead performance by Tahar Rahim has been singled out for particular acclaim, described by fans as a “brilliantly understated, award-worthy performance.” A perfect 10/10 review labelled the film a “rare pearl in the genre,” praising its clever script, excellent cast, and surprising attention to detail.
The Story of a Prisoner's Ascent
First released in 2009, the film follows Malik El-Djebena (Tahar Rahim), a young, vulnerable man entering a French prison. Inside, he is coerced into working for a powerful Corsican mafia boss, César Luciani (Niels Arestrup).
What begins as a simple arrangement of protection and favours slowly transforms into a complex mentorship. Malik learns quickly, undertaking various jobs for César and gradually building trust. The narrative charts his immense, transformative journey from a naive inmate to a formidable player, a change so subtle that its full power often only resonates as the credits roll.
As Malik's influence grows, a tense and inevitable conflict with his mentor begins to brew, setting the stage for a gripping and tragic power struggle.
Award-Winning Legacy and Cast
‘A Prophet’ is far from an overlooked gem in critical circles. The film’s trophy cabinet is substantial, proving its widespread acclaim.
Its accolades include:
- Winning a BAFTA Film Award for Best Film Not in the English Language.
- Securing nine prestigious César Awards, including Best Film, Director, Actor for Rahim, and Supporting Actor for Arestrup.
- Earning major prizes at both the Cannes Film Festival and the London Film Festival.
- Being nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.
The film continues to appear regularly on esteemed lists, including rankings by the BBC, Empire magazine, and Rolling Stone's best films of the 21st Century. In the UK, its broadcast on Channel 4 made it one of the most-watched French-language films on television.
For Tahar Rahim, the role was a monumental breakout. He landed the part after a chance car journey with director Jacques Audiard. Since then, his career has flourished with roles in major projects like the BBC's The Serpent, Napoleon, The Mauritanian, and Marvel's Madame Web.
‘A Prophet’ is available to stream now on Prime Video.
