Release: 2024-01-10
Runtime: 1h 40m (100 minutes)
Astrid is the wife of an acclaimed lawyer. Silenced for 25 years, her family balance suddenly collapses when her children initiate their search for justice.
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Provided by JustWatch
Genres: Drama
Cast: Daniel Auteuil, Daniel Auteuil, Emmanuelle Devos, more
Daniel Auteuil
as François Schaar
Daniel Auteuil
as François Schaar
Emmanuelle Devos
as Astrid Schaar
Emmanuelle Devos
as Astrid Schaar
Damien Bonnard
as Pierre
Damien Bonnard
as Pierre
Louise Chevillotte
as Caroline
Louise Chevillotte
as Caroline
Karim Barras
as Barras
Karim Barras
as Barras
Baptiste Sornin
as Etienne Guérin
Baptiste Sornin
as Etienne Guérin
Astrid is the wife of an acclaimed lawyer. Silenced for 25 years, her family balance suddenly collapses when her children initiate their search for justice.
A Silence (_Un silence_), directed by Joachim Lafosse, is a gripping drama film that delves into family turmoil and long-buried secrets. Starring Daniel Auteuil and Emmanuelle Devos, the film premiered on 25 September 2023 at the 71st San Sebastián International Film Festival and was released in France on 10 January 2024.
The story follows Astrid, a woman who has remained silent for 25 years, as her family's stability crumbles when her children begin to seek justice. This emotional journey is based on the real-life case of Victor Hissel, a disgraced Belgian lawyer.
The film features a talented cast, including:
The screenplay was a collaborative effort led by Lafosse, with contributions from Thomas Van Zuylen, Chloé Duponchelle, and others. The film was produced by several companies, including Stenola Productions and Samsa Film, with support from Les Films du Losange and Prime Time.
After its successful premiere, A Silence was selected to compete for the prestigious Golden Shell at the San Sebastián festival. The film will be released in Luxembourg on 17 January 2024 and in Belgium on 24 January 2024.
In terms of audience reception, the film has garnered an approval rating of 82% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 17 reviews, averaging a score of 7 out of 10. Additionally, it received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars on AlloCiné, reflecting the positive critical reception.
Critics have praised the film for its impactful storytelling. Guy Lodge from Variety noted that the film possesses a "gasping power" and a "searching sadness" that resonates deeply, highlighting the emotional weight of the unfolding family drama.
As audiences prepare for its official releases in various countries, A Silence is anticipated to spark conversations about family dynamics and the long-lasting effects of silence in the face of injustice.