The First Day of the Rest of Your Life – France – 2008
Written & Directed by Remi Bezancon
This was a heartfelt reflection of chaotic family life, it is over all witty and personal. I related to most of the characters in the film as I could find bits of myself and my family in them without really trying. I really enjoyed this film, it reminded me of home and the path most of have taken from the innocence of childhood into the turmoil of adolescence coupled with the feeling of under appreciation on into the discovery of adulthood, and the disappointment of old age and loss. The complexity of the relationships amongst the characters was very engaging; how they interacted and overlapped.I thought the story was wonderfully written and the plot was brilliantly executed with the help from the strong performances from all three siblings.
When Fleur lost her virginity to Sacha I really felt for her, this scene was really suspenseful. You almost knew it was coming, but you’re still holding out for her “don’t do it, don’t do it!” and the little girl Fleur watching teenager Fleur close the door, watching the blood ooze from under the door, and then little Fleur turning and walking away never to exist again. Very symbolic, very well produced, visually powerful and emotional. Funny parts too though, Mom dancing in the den listening to her records smoking the pot she had confinscated from Fleur. The scene where the boys are reconnecting with Dad over a bottle of vintage wine was very sweet.
So after all of it I believe the message I took from it was you can hate your family and love them at the same time, family love is the spine of your life, and when you realize what a fortunate gift it is to have then you can truly appreciate them.
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