How does one deal with self-guilt? How does one make their loved ones respect and forgive past sins? François Ozon’s latest is a poignant story of overcoming losses and finding ways to keep family together.
French director and writer François Ozon offers us a glimpse into the world of Michelle, a peaceful old woman enjoying her retired life in a Burgundy village, in his latest film Quand vient l’automne (When Fall is Coming). This film is part of the official selection at the 72nd San Sebastián International Film Festival, where it competes for the Golden Shell and had its world premiere to a packed audience.
Originally from Paris, the city of lights, Michelle has chosen to live the rest of her life in the village, close to her long-time friend Marie-Claude. Life moves at a regular pace for Michelle, praying in the church, tending to her vegetable patch, and living a peaceful, easy life. We see her excitement as she waits for her grandson to arrive from Paris for the summer vacation. For Michelle, her daughter Valerie’s son Lucas is the light of her life, and she prepares vast amounts of fresh food and airs the beds in anticipation of his visit. However, things go awry when her daughter, who always seems unhappy and under a lot of stress due to an impending divorce and work-related problems, accuses Michelle of poisoning her with wild mushrooms. This accusation prevents Lucas from visiting his grandmother, leading to Michelle’s depressed state and loneliness. What ensues creates the premise of a domestic drama with light thriller elements focusing on family relationships.
The story is layered, keeping many reasons ambiguous and instances open-ended. The constant feeling of hurt stems from Michelle’s colorful past, which now hampers the lives of her loved ones. Her efforts to make things right for her family take center stage. The film delves into her growing urge to resolve family animosities, protect those dear to her, and redefine the concept of an ideal life.
Ozon, whose earlier works Eight Women, Potiche, Frantz and Berlinale Silver Bear Winner By the Grace of God are known for their elegance, wit, and cynicism, seems to have taken a more somber path in telling this family drama.
Yes, there are twists and turns in this film, with hidden identities and covering up wrong deeds to give some a second chance. When Fall is Coming mirrors the season it represents, with yellowed, burnt-orange, dried leaves clinging to their branches as the autumn winds blow. Michelle tries to do just that—hold on to the remaining ties of family and wait for her life to pass on.
Distributed by Diaphana, When Fall is Coming will serve as the closing film at FIFF Namur and will make its UK debut at the 2024 BFI London Film Festival. The film will hit French theaters on October 2, 2024.
We are delighted to be reporting live from the 72nd San Sebastian International Film Festival, running on September 20-28, 2024 in Spain.
