François Ozon is a filmmaker whose work exudes a sense of refined artistry that resembles the ambiance of an intimate, independent arthouse coffee shop. Like the carefully selected art pieces adorning the walls of such a cafe, Ozon’s films are crafted with care and precision, offering a unique and engaging cinematic experience.
François Ozon’s latest film, Everything Went Fine, based on a biography by the late Emmanuèle Bernheim, who has collaborated with Ozon on scripts for several of his films, is a poignant and thought-provoking story that centers around Emmanuèle, who is a middle-aged woman (Sophie Marceau), and her sister Pascale (Géraldine Pailhas). Emmanuèle struggles to care for their difficult and aging parents, whose complex and turbulent relationship has left a deep mark on both sisters. As the story unfolds, we see Emmanuèle at her desk, lost in thought, when she receives a phone call from Pascale. The news is grim: their father, André, a cantankerous and domineering figure brilliantly played by André Dussollier, has suffered a stroke and is now in the hospital. This turn of events forces Emmanuèle and Pascale to confront the reality of their parents’ fragile health and the weight of their responsibilities as caregivers.
Complicating matters further is the fact that their mother, portrayed with raw emotion by Charlotte Rampling, is battling dementia and depression. Despite being physically together, the couple appears to live completely separate lives, with a mysterious reason for their estrangement gradually unfolding as the story progresses. After André recovers from his stroke, he becomes determined to end his life through assisted suicide. He turns to his daughter for help in this venture, which pulls us into this high-drama, dark, and intense rollercoaster of a ride, but there is some comedy that does lighten the mood, and when the comedy hits, it hits spot-on every time. This is largely due to the impeccable performance by Dussollier, who sinks his teeth completely into this role with relish and brings a wonderful charm to the screen. André’s dark humor is increasingly funny, yet quite disturbing and stomach-turning. Despite his monstrous tendencies, André’s sharp, witty, and dark behavior makes him both a very lovable and entertaining character.
Everything Went Fine is brilliantly executed, thanks to Ozon’s gorgeous direction and the outstanding performances delivered by the entire cast. The film delves into the intricacies of life and death with great sensitivity and skill, while its witty dialogue and clever humor give it a unique flavor that sets it apart from the usual dramatic fare. Dussollier’s exceptional acting steals the show and adds a layer of depth to the film that is truly remarkable. This comedic gem is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.
While the first hour of the film may seem like a drag to some viewers, it is this deliberate pacing that allows the story to build in a natural and organic way. Ozon is equally adept at crafting a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of the characters, imbuing them with a sense of humanity that is both raw and real. Through his lens, we witness the complexity of the relationships between the family members and the emotional toll that the impending loss takes on each of them. There are some moments throughout the film that are very difficult to digest, specifically André’s insensitive question about how poor people manage to pay for healthcare. However, these moments are offset by the authenticity and emotional depth that are imbued throughout the picture.
Everything Went Fine is a film that speaks to the universal experience of loss, with all of its attendant emotions and complexities. Marceau’s exceptional performance and Ozon’s deft direction combine to create a moving and deeply felt exploration of the human experience, one that is sure to resonate with viewers on a profound level.
Everything Went Fine opens in theaters in New York on April 14, 2023 courtesy of Cohen Media Group with a national expansion to follow.
Everything Went Fine is a film that speaks to the universal experience of loss, with all of its attendant emotions and complexities.
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GVN Rating 9
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It all started when I was a kid watching Saturday morning cartoons like the Spider-Man: Animated Series and Batman. Since then I’ve been hooked to the world of pop culture. Huge movie lover from French New Wave, to the latest blockbusters, I love them all. Huge Star Wars and Marvel geek. When I’m free from typing away at my computer, you can usually catch me watching a good flick or reading the next best comic. Come geek out with me on Twitter @somedudecody.