I watched Anatomy of a Fall and I liked it. 3.5/5
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Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” is a French film that carves its own path, defying easy categorization. While billed as a courtroom drama, it transcends the genre, becoming a nuanced exploration of a crumbling marriage and the complexities of truth. While not reaching flawless heights, it’s a compelling watch, earning a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
The film opens with a chilling ambiguity. A seemingly happy couple, Anne (Sandra Hüller) and Samuel, vacation in the snowy French Alps with their blind son. A fall disrupts their idyll, leaving Samuel dead and Anne a suspect. We’re thrown into a labyrinthine legal battle, witnessing the French court dissect their relationship, searching for motive and intent.
Hüller delivers a mesmerizing performance as Anne, a stoic woman grappling with shock, grief, and the ever-present accusation. Her emotional restraint fuels the film’s intrigue, leaving us unsure of her guilt or innocence. This ambiguity extends to the narrative itself, which throws red herrings and keeps us guessing until the very end.
Triet masterfully uses the courtroom as a stage, exposing the cracks in Anne and Samuel’s marriage. Witness testimonies and legal arguments peel back layers, revealing resentment, infidelity, and unspoken desires. It’s a fascinating psychological study, showcasing how love can turn sour, leaving bitterness and doubt in its wake.
However, “Anatomy of a Fall” falters slightly in its pacing. The legal proceedings, while meticulously portrayed, can feel repetitive at times. Additionally, the ending, while thought-provoking, might leave some viewers unsatisfied with its lack of definitive answers. The film excels in its portrayal of family dynamics. The relationship between Anne and her son, Ben, adds a layer of emotional depth. Ben, played with remarkable sensitivity by Léonard Papineau, becomes a crucial piece in the legal puzzle, navigating his own grief and the pressure to testify.
Visually, the film is stark yet beautiful. The snow-covered mountains serve as a backdrop to the emotional turmoil, adding a sense of isolation and vulnerability. The cinematography is precise, capturing the tension and intimacy of the performances.
Overall, “Anatomy of a Fall” is a rewarding experience for patient viewers seeking a unique cinematic journey. It’s not a traditional whodunit but rather a captivating exploration of human relationships and the elusiveness of truth. Hüller’s performance is a highlight, and the film’s thought-provoking ambiguity lingers long after the credits roll. If you’re looking for a suspenseful courtroom drama with a deeper emotional core, “Anatomy of a Fall” is worth dissecting.