A getaway at a secluded log cabin in the forest becomes the site of escalating, multigenerational tensions and anxieties in this disquieting, impeccably mounted coming-of-age drama from Quebecois filmmaker Philippe Lesage (Genesis). Ostensibly a merry reunion between well-known film director Blake Cadieux (Arieh Worthalter, 2024 César winner for Best Actor for The Goldman Case) and his longtime friend and former collaborator Albert Gary (Paul Ahmarani), the vacation gradually becomes something far more complex and less stable, especially with the combustible admixture of Albert’s teen son’s best friend, Jeff (Noah Parker), and Albert’s self-asserting daughter Aliocha (Aurélia Arandi-Longpré). Featuring longtime Krzysztof Kieślowski muse Irène Jacob.

For in-depth thoughts on Who By Fire, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required:

Video Quality

Who By Fire arrives on Blu-Ray courtesy of KimStim with a stunning 1080p presentation that deftly represents this film. This is a visually exquisite film with a significant amount of time spent out in nature, and the camera embraces every single moment of it. There is a welcome amount of detail in close-up shots, along with wide shots of the dazzling vistas. Colors are faithfully saturated and especially complex within the foliage. Skin tones look natural, and there are some impressive facial details present. Black levels largely hold firm with no crush, and highlights avoid blooming. There are some moments in the shadows that show hints of banding, but it is not a major nuisance. Compression artifacts and other digital anomalies are nowhere to be found. The film is a treat to view on Blu-Ray.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track in the original French that brings each sonic element to life with care. The movie is largely driven by dialogue, but the movie also allows plenty of space to linger and reflect upon the natural soundscape in totality. The track comes alive with subtle sounds of nature flourishing out of the speakers. The film makes good use of panning effects to ground you in the space. Environmental sounds such as animal noises and wind come through well in the side and rear speakers. Dialogue is crisp and clear without being overshadowed by the score or sound effects. Overall, this track does a commendable job representing the film. Optional English subtitles are available.

Special Features

Interview with Director Philippe Lesage: A 25-minute interview with the filmmaker conducted by Eric Lavallée of Ioncinema.com, in which he discusses the importance of the setting and shooting locations, the multiple conflicts occurring within the narrative, his approach to writing, collaborations with his cinematographer, and more.

Theatrical Trailer (2:26)

Booklet: A 16-page booklet with an essay by writer and historian Beatrice Loayza.

Final Thoughts

Who By Fire is a patient, sprawling drama which lets tensions simmer on multiple fronts, always leaving the audience uneasy about which pressure point will crack first. The film does not always earn its lengthy runtime, but more often than not you find yourself transfixed by the characters and how they might react to any new development. The film wrestles with the toxicity that can seep from a wounded male ego without being too heavy-handed in its execution. This is aided by the terrific performances from the entire ensemble, who seem completely in sync with their characters and each other. It is worth the investment if you like thorny interpersonal dynamics. KimStim has provided a Blu-Ray with a terrific A/V presentation along with a wlecome interview. Recommended

Who By Fire is currently available to purchase on Standard Edition Blu-Ray or with a Limited Edition Slipcover exclusively through Vinegar Syndrome.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: KimStim and OCN Distribution have supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.