The Cinematheque

In a stark judicial chamber, a separated couple argue over custody of their son, 12-year-old Julien. (Another child, Joséphine, about to turn 18, is not part of the dispute.) Miriam demands full custody (also Julien’s preference), and accuses her ex-husband of abuse, although no legal evidence of this exists. Dumbfounded, Antoine blames his ex-wife for turning the children against him. ​“Which one of you is the biggest liar?” asks the judge, before ultimately deciding on shared custody. The sense of dread and menace hovering over Julien’s weekends with his father only intensifies as it becomes frighteningly clear that Antoine is unable to accept that his marriage is over. Under Xavier Legrand’s assured direction, what begins as a naturalistic domestic drama transforms into a psychological thriller and then into a horror film of heart-in-mouth proportions. Winner, Silver Lion (Best Director) and Lion of the Future (Best Debut), Venice 2017.

Post-screening discussion with Dr. Susan Gamache and Vandana Sood.

Moderated by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia.