This is a somewhat strange film. It begins, however, as a classic family – and marital – drama, but then gradually turns into a tale of anticipation. For her sixth feature film as director, Julie Delpy, who also signs the screenplay, explores themes as intimate as they are delicate, which also raise ethical and moral questions. In truth, how far can one force destiny? What does the future hold for us in this regard?
The Franco-American filmmaker herself plays Isabelle, a specialist in genetic questions who, for a practical matter, has moved to Berlin, the city where James, her former husband (Richard Armitage), works. In the first part, the management of schedules for the care of their adorable daughter Zoe (Sophia Ally) is always open to conflict. Never having accepted the breakup, James shows no flexibility in this regard.
When a tragedy strikes in the family, the story takes another direction. Isabelle’s turn to refuse reality, to the point of wanting to divert the normal course of things. This part of the story is bold, but more convoluted. Isabelle is in fact closed in on her convictions, even if it means defying the laws of nature, just as much as those of justice. The current of empathy towards this mother, whose motivations we understand, however, go more difficult.
Well done by an ensemble cast which also includes Daniel Brühl, Gemma Arterton and Saleh Bakri, My Zoe (My Zoe is the title in French) will probably not arouse, because of the manner, the expected debate, but nevertheless has the merit of addressing questions which will undoubtedly arise one day.
In theaters in the original version with French subtitles.
Drama
My Zoe
Julie delpy
With Julie Delpy, Richard Armitage, Daniel Brühl
1 h 40
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