Le Torrent

Simon Lavoie bases his third feature film on the work of Canadian writer Anne Hébert. The quiet drama about victims and redemptions emphasizes the space and visual value through long, motionless shots of wild nature. The water element especially reflects the grave fate of Francois, an illegitimate son who is being prepared for a priest's career by his mother. Inventive stratification of the plot develops the timelines. It accentuates new connections in the characters' behavior. Numerous details remain only implied and keep the viewer's suspense despite a slower tempo. The selected style of filmmaking perfectly corresponds with the heavy topic. (Febiofest)