THINGS TO COME

The life changes a middle-aged woman experiences are intelligently but laboriously detailed in this dramatic film from France which garnered leading actress Isabelle Huppert many awards for her performance.

Nathalie leads a busy life – she’s a philosophy teacher, has a family and a sickly mother who takes up much of her time. The passage of time brings many changes – her children move out, her mother passes on and after 25 years of marriage her husband leaves her for another woman.

With newfound freedom comes new beginnings. Nathalie examines the philosophy of life and the need to adapt to changes which life has bestowed upon her.

Realistically portrayed, but the storyline of her relationship with ex-student Fabien (Roman Kolinka) may confuse audiences – is it a platonic friendship or will an older woman/younger man relationship develop? Nathalie’s ex-husband still seems to be hovering in her life – will they re-unite?

This intellectually stimulating and masterfully produced motion picture ultimately feels like a philosophy tutorial and may only appeal to select art house audiences.

★★★

Reviewed by Mark Morellini.