The film Des Jours Meilleurs is currently screening at the Cinema Pax in Lourdes, offering audiences a unique blend of drama and comedy. Starring Valérie Bonneton, Michèle Laroque, Sabrina Ouazani, and Clovis Cornillac, the film addresses a poignant issue rarely explored in French cinema: female alcoholism.
Set against the backdrop of personal struggle, the narrative follows Suzanne, a mother who loses custody of her three children following a car accident. Faced with the harsh realities of her addiction, she must seek treatment at a rehabilitation center. It is here that she encounters Alice and Diane, two strong-willed women, and Denis, a sports educator determined to unite them in a shared goal: participating in the Dunes rally in the Moroccan desert. This unlikely team must overcome their personal challenges to reach their objective.
Since its premiere on April 23, 2025, Des Jours Meilleurs has garnered mixed reviews. As of April 25, the film holds an average press rating of 3 out of 5, based on 21 reviews, while audiences have rated it higher, averaging 4 out of 5 from 239 ratings, including 140 user reviews. Critics have praised the performances of the lead actresses and Cornillac, highlighting the film's sensitive portrayal of its subject matter.
In a recent interview, Ouazani, who has been acting since she was 13, shared her experiences preparing for this challenging role. She immersed herself in addiction centers to better understand the struggles faced by women dealing with alcoholism. "This film is touching and offers a different perspective on the disease of alcoholism, particularly affecting women," she noted.
Reviews have noted the film's emotional depth, with viewers appreciating its balance of drama and humor without resorting to excessive pathos. One viewer, Karine, rated it 5 out of 5, stating, "There is a lot of emotion and testimony in this touching film. The director fought for six years to make this film and provide a new perspective on the disease of alcoholism, which affects women here. Many values are defended, including mutual aid and interaction among all."
However, not all feedback has been positive. Some reviewers pointed out implausibilities in the screenplay. Jackpopopote mentioned, "Not everything is perfect, but it’s successful. This comedy is often moving, highlighting the insidious nature of alcohol in our society. While one could criticize many implausibilities and conveniences in the plot and its intrigue, we forgive it due to the strength of this film and its characters."
On the promotional circuit, Ouazani appeared on the show En Aparté on April 24, where she discussed her late ex-fiancé, Yasmine Belmadi, who tragically passed away in a scooter accident in 2009. Reflecting on their relationship, she recalled a promise they made to attend the Cannes Film Festival together. "I couldn’t go to the festival without him. We promised to walk the steps together," she shared, emphasizing the emotional weight of that memory.
Additionally, Ouazani has been candid about the societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption. During her appearance on Quotidien on April 11, she expressed frustration over the expectation to drink in social settings. "I don’t drink, and every time I refuse a drink, there’s immediate guilt and questioning that follows. It can’t just be simple," she explained, highlighting the stigma faced by those who choose sobriety.
The film's exploration of female alcoholism and the personal stories of its characters resonate with many viewers, making it a significant entry in contemporary French cinema. As audiences flock to see Des Jours Meilleurs, it sparks discussions about the often-taboo subject of addiction, particularly among women.
For those interested in viewing the film, showtimes are available from April 23 to April 29, 2025, at the Cinema Pax in Lourdes. The film's ability to blend humor with serious themes offers a refreshing take on a difficult subject, making it a must-see for those looking to engage with meaningful cinema.
