On Monday, April 21, 2025, France 3 will air the film Fête de famille, directed by Cédric Kahn and featuring a star-studded cast including Catherine Deneuve, Emmanuelle Bercot, and Vincent Macaigne. This 2019 comedy-drama revolves around Andrea, played by Deneuve, who hopes to celebrate her birthday with joy and happiness. However, her plans are derailed by the unexpected return of her eldest daughter, Claire (Bercot), who has been absent for three years and is determined to reclaim her rightful place within the family.
The film opens with Andrea's optimistic declaration: "Today it’s my birthday, and I’d like to talk about only joyful things." Yet, this wish is quickly overshadowed by Claire's return, which triggers a series of emotional confrontations and reveals long-buried family secrets. Kahn's film is more than just a family gathering; it dives deep into the complexities of familial relationships, exploring themes of madness and emotional turmoil that often lurk beneath the surface of what appears to be an ideal family.
Cédric Kahn, known for his previous works such as Les Regrets (2009) and Une vie meilleure (2011), has crafted a narrative that examines the fragility of family bonds. In this film, he not only directs but also plays one of the sons, Vincent. The dynamics of the family are further complicated by the presence of Andrea's other son, Romain (Macaigne), who struggles with his own issues, including his failed career as a filmmaker.
As the family gathers to celebrate, the atmosphere is light-hearted at first, with Andrea wishing for a perfect day. However, the arrival of Claire sets off a chain reaction of tension and drama. Her mental state, exacerbated by her past traumas, becomes a focal point of the film. The review notes that the film oscillates between moments of levity and darker, more serious themes, creating a unique blend of comedy and drama. Kahn's approach to storytelling allows for a nuanced exploration of each character's struggles, although some critics argue that the film occasionally loses focus by attempting to give equal attention to all characters.
One of the standout performances comes from Emmanuelle Bercot, whose portrayal of Claire is described as both compelling and unsettling. Her character's explosive outbursts during a family lunch scene highlight her emotional distress and the impact it has on the family dynamic. Critics have pointed out that while Kahn aims for a balanced narrative, the film sometimes falters under the weight of its many subplots, leading to a diluted focus on Claire's story.
In an interview, Catherine Deneuve expressed her enjoyment in working on Fête de famille, noting that it was refreshing not to be the center of attention for a change. "It’s nice not to be the center of attention, to work with many other actors, to observe and listen to them more closely," she remarked. This shift in perspective allowed her to explore a different facet of her acting career, as she typically plays leading roles. Deneuve appreciated Kahn's vision and the depth of the characters in the film, stating, "I found those in Fête de famille extremely well-developed. It was a pleasure to play the mother of this entire tribe. Together, we formed a sort of tightly-knit theater troupe."
Despite its ambitious narrative, Fête de famille received mixed reviews upon its release in September 2019, attracting only 326,169 viewers. Critics have noted that while the film attempts to balance humor with poignant family drama, it sometimes struggles with tonal inconsistencies. The film's comedic elements are interspersed with serious themes of mental health and familial obligation, creating a complex viewing experience that may not resonate with all audiences.
As the film unfolds, viewers witness the fragile balance of family life and the underlying tensions that can erupt at any moment. Kahn's direction captures this precariousness beautifully, showcasing the characters' emotional struggles and the impact of Claire's return on their lives. The film's climax, marked by a dramatic family dinner, serves as a pivotal moment where secrets are revealed, and relationships are tested.
Overall, Fête de famille is a poignant exploration of family dynamics, laden with both humor and heartache. Kahn's ability to weave together the threads of each character's story creates a rich tapestry that reflects the complexities of familial love and the challenges that come with it. As viewers tune in on April 21, they will be treated to a film that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on their own family relationships.
For those interested in exploring more of Kahn's work, his film Le procès Goldman (2023) is available on MyCanal, alongside other notable films like Making of (2024), Feux rouges (2004), and Une vie meilleure (2012). With a career spanning over three decades, Kahn continues to push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, making Fête de famille a noteworthy addition to his filmography.
