La Cause et l’usage

“A financial gift during an electoral period”: in under one hour of film, the reason why Corbeil-Essonnes’ outgoing mayor Serge Dassault lost his eligibility is gradually transformed into the manifesto of a very odd conception of politics. During a second campaign in autumn 2009, the billionaire industrialist supports “his” candidate since he cannot stand again. He hands out promises to the local youth, to housewives shopping on the market… Following not only Dassault and his consorts but also militants and competitors, the film shows that in times of crisis the firepower of money can serve as a political programme. Solidly anchored in the public space, La Cause et l’Usage has no need to look behind the scenes: the conjuring trick is performed in full view: nothing-inmy- hands-nothing-in-my-pockets except wads of banknotes. “What sector would those who are jobless like to work in?” throws out the orator, purposefully confusing the role of mayor and that of private-sector employer. This hilarious portrait nonetheless sends shivers down one’s spine. The crisis continues to reshape the idea we each have of public service and democracy.