THE GOOD LIFE

La belle vie

Director Jean Denizot / 2013

Evoking the spirits of Jeff Nichols' Mud and Sidney Lumet's Running on Empty, this likeable film offers a tender insight into masculinity, identity and growing up.

Sixteen-year-old Sylvain and his older brother Pierre live a nomadic life with their father, Yves. Staying off the grid seems idyllic at first, but after one too many close encounters with the authorities, a frustrated Pierre takes off, leaving Sylvain and Yves alone. When Sylvain meets Gilda, however, he begins to question the life his father has set for him.

Filmed in the stunning Loire Valley, The Good Life is based on the true story of a French man who went on the run with his sons after losing a custody battle to his ex-wife. Anchored by Zacharie Chasseriaud's powerful performance as Sylvain, the film looks at how we can turn out all right, under even the strangest of upbringings.

"A nuanced, emotionally authentic coming of age story." – Screen

MIFF recommends ages 15+

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