Where Do Souls Go: A Sublime Death
The film “Where Do Souls Go” marks the directorial debut of actress and playwright Brigitte Poupart. Released recently, it features a stellar performance from the lead trio: Sara Montpetit, Julianne Côté, and Monia Chokri. The poignant narrative tackles themes of mortality and reconciliation against the backdrop of a family in turmoil.
A Profound Storyline
In “Where Do Souls Go,” Anna, played by Sara Montpetit, faces impending death in just two weeks. Amid her struggles, she finds solace confiding in her horse, Joséphine, named after her grandmother. Anna documents her journey through photos and videos shared on her Instagram account.
Living in a decaying family home with her mother, Stéphanie, portrayed by Sylvie Testud, Anna grapples with her decision to seek medical assistance in dying. She wishes to reunite with her two older half-sisters, Ève (Monia Chokri) and Éléonore (Julianne Côté), whom she hasn’t seen since their father, a renowned pianist, was imprisoned for sexual assault.
Complex Familial Dynamics
Ève, who testified against their father, is initially reluctant to reconnect. However, under pressure from Ève, Éléonore agrees to visit their childhood home, where tense and emotional reunions unfold. The narrative showcases the bittersweet experience of grappling with a fractured family while confronting a painful past.
Brigitte Poupart’s Vision
Brigitte Poupart has demonstrated immense creativity and resilience in her various projects over the past few years. Along with this film, she has directed the immersive performance “Until Death Do Us Part” and created the documentary “Through Your Eyes,” filmed in Haiti. Poupart’s unique vision in “Where Do Souls Go” emphasizes the representation of women in the arts.
Thematic Depth and Visual Aesthetics
The film is rich in artistic expression, intertwining visual elements with music to convey emotions like suppressed anger and complex sisterly love. Despite its somber themes, “Where Do Souls Go” celebrates life and encourages reconciliation and forgiveness amidst sorrow.
With breathtaking cinematography by Gontran Chartré, the film creates an immersive atmosphere. The family home transforms between a whimsical dollhouse and a gilded cage, reflecting Anna’s emotional journey. As Anna navigates her illness, she turns her suffering into artistic expressions, producing visual poetry and graceful performances.
A Unique Perspective on End-of-Life Care
Poupart’s film sheds light on the process of medical assistance in dying, presenting it with both simplicity and dignity. Through the character of nurse Jacynthe, played by Fabiola Nyrva Aladin, the film offers a comforting presence that redefines the concept of the “angel of death.” The narrative conveys the profound impact of compassionate care during life’s final moments.
Critical Reception
“Where Do Souls Go” stands out among films addressing the sensitive topic of assisted dying. While similar works exist, such as Stéphane Brizé’s “A Few Hours of Spring” and Costa-Gavras’s “The Last Breath,” Poupart’s film is hailed as the most lyrical and radiant among them. With a runtime of 2 hours and a commendable rating of 9/10, this drama has captured the hearts of audiences.
Overall, “Where Do Souls Go” is a compelling exploration of death and the complexities of familial love. Brigitte Poupart’s artistic journey resonates deeply, making this film a significant contribution to contemporary cinema.
