Critics Rating: 3.5 stars*

Cast: Karin Viard, Noémie Lvovsky, Jacques Gamblin, Ulrich Tukur, Aurélia Petit.

Director: Anne Villaceque

Produced: Nicolas Blanc (Ex Nihilo)

Written: Anne Villacèque, Sophie Fillières

Genre: Fiction

Duration: 90 Mins

The “Week-ends” is a beautiful story of 2 couples who have lived as neighbours in their weekend homes in Normandy for the past 29 years. Their homes serve as a scenic backdrop that instantly teleport you to the beautiful beachside town. The fluid narrative excels with its simplistic story-telling. One of the characters Jean seems to be dealing with an existential crisis and decides to walk out on his wife of 30 years, Christine and their family. His actions consequently affect the dynamics of the relationship that they share with their best friends/neighbours. The story tactfully deconstructs the various reasons for which humans settle down and get married while questioning our morality and the social construct, all through the lens of loneliness.

This broken marriage is juxtaposed with that of Sylvette and Ulrich, their happier neighbours. The contrast sheds light on the unknown predicament of life. Jean’s motive for escaping is intriguing because as an individual he is questioning his impermanence. This makes you sympathize with his character regardless of the abandonment of his loved ones. Christine represents the stereotypical woman, suffering a breakdown post separation. She is shown to be incapable of moving on with her life when she realizes that Jean has a new lover.

Sylvette and Ulrich find themselves in a peculiar situation, forced to balance their relationship with Jean and his new lover Pascal while maintaining their allegiance to Christine. A scene where Sylvette and Ulrich lie in bed overhearing Jean play his instrument could be considered the highlight of the film.

Despite resolving his conflict with his Christine, Jean cannot seem to gather enough conviction to be sure of his life. The film as a whole questions the fabric of our existence and how time plays a role in morphing our identities.

The constant pace of the editing lures you in slowly but manages to keep you hooked. Overall, the film is a great watch and something soon to be married couples should consider watching before they take the leap.