An intriguing plot
A corpse, a reasonable doubt – suicide, accident or murder -, a suspect, a trial, a very particular witness and a dog named after a Barcelona legend. These are the elements that entangle the characters of French filmmaker Justine Triet and her collaborator Arthur Harari in an exciting thriller. The play uses the techniques of procedurals to explore a couple’s relationship that is falling apart. The film not only shows the fall of a man from a window, but also the fall of a marriage. And in addition, Anatomy of a Fall offers an incisive look at the judicial system, which reflects the patriarchal structures of contemporary society.
An intriguing judgment
In the first scene of the film, winner of the Palme d’Or in Cannes and nominated for five Oscars, we meet a successful novelist who lives in a mountain house with her husband, her disabled son visual and his dog. An interview with an aspiring writer is interrupted by the husband’s loud music upstairs. From there, the plot gets complicated and questions are raised about the husband’s death: suicide, accident or murder? A year later, the trial begins, where more details about the protagonist’s personal life are revealed and doubts arise about her guilt.
A critique of the judicial system and patriarchy
As the trial progresses, the film exposes the prosecutor’s sexist biases and gender stereotypes in the judicial system. The accused is questioned not only about the case, but also about her personal life, her bisexuality and her extramarital affairs. The film shows how patriarchy infiltrates institutions and how trusts are broken. It also examines how the protagonist is perceived by different characters, including the media, who seek to build a good media spectacle.
An exceptional cast
The performance of Sandra Hüller stands out, who plays the protagonist with a wide variety of emotions and nuances. His acting talent is the focal point of the film, which also features other captivating characters, such as the dog named after the Barcelona legend. Anatomy of a Fall is an impressive and intense work that keeps the viewer hooked until the end.
