Peaceful (film)

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Peaceful (French: De son vivant) is a 2021 French drama film directed by Emmanuelle Bercot. The film stars Catherine Deneuve, Benoît Magimel, and Cécile de France in leading roles. It revolves around the emotional journey of a man diagnosed with terminal cancer, his relationship with his mother, and the impact of his illness on his family and medical staff.

Plot

The film follows Benjamin (played by Benoît Magimel), a teacher in his 40s who is diagnosed with terminal cancer. As Benjamin struggles to come to terms with his diagnosis, the story delves into the dynamics of his relationship with his mother, Crystal (played by Catherine Deneuve), and his interactions with the medical professionals treating him. The narrative explores themes of life, death, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of inevitable loss. Through its portrayal of Benjamin's journey, Peaceful seeks to offer a meditation on the process of dying and the importance of living life to the fullest.

Cast

• Catherine Deneuve as Crystal, Benjamin's mother
• Benoît Magimel as Benjamin, a teacher diagnosed with terminal cancer
• Cécile de France as a doctor treating Benjamin
• Other supporting roles are portrayed by actors who bring depth to the story of Benjamin's life and his interactions with those around him.

Production

Directed by Emmanuelle Bercot, Peaceful is noted for its sensitive portrayal of a difficult subject matter. The film's production involved significant research into the experiences of cancer patients and the challenges faced by their families and healthcare providers. Bercot's direction and the performances of the lead actors have been praised for their authenticity and emotional depth.

Reception

Upon its release, Peaceful received mixed reviews from critics. While the performances of Deneuve, Magimel, and de France were widely lauded, some critics pointed out the film's pacing and tone as areas of contention. Nonetheless, Peaceful has been recognized for its heartfelt exploration of its themes and its contribution to conversations around mortality and the human experience.

See Also

• French cinema
• Drama films
• Films about cancer