Directed by Justine Triet, Anatomy of a Fall (2023) weaves an enthralling tale set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps, a locale as essential to the plot as its protagonists.

Ingeniously crafted and profoundly performed, the movie revolves around the death of Samuel, an educator and author, who resides with his novelist spouse, Sandra Voyter (Sandra Hüller), and their 11-year-old son, Daniel (Milo Machado Graner), in a humble mountain retreat amidst the snow-capped peaks.

Returning from a stroll with his faithful canine, Snoop, Daniel stumbles upon the gruesome scene of his father’s body sprawled on the frozen terrain, beneath an ajar attic window on the third floor, raising questions of accident, suicide, or foul play.

Beyond Stereotypes: Sandra’s Character and Women in Cinema

The plot thickens as suspicion surrounds his wife, Sandra, played by the captivating Sandra Hüller. Sandra, much like the mysterious alpine landscape, is characterized by a stoic and distant demeanour.

This portrayal left me pondering deeply about the representation of women in cinema and society. Does Sandra’s stoicism embody a woman’s resilience in a patriarchal world, or is it a shield against the misinterpretation and judgment that women often face? Her character becomes a canvas for these reflections, making me question the societal constructs that define and often confine women.

Expectations vs. Reality: The Film’s Unique Approach

When I first sat down to watch Anatomy of a Fall, I was armed with expectations shaped by the film’s accolades, such as the Palme d’Or and a Golden Globe. I anticipated a David Fincher-like maze of plot twists.

However, I was greeted instead by a psychological drama with elements of a thriller, a shift that initially left me somewhat perplexed. As the story unfolded, my initial reservations gave way to a profound admiration for the film’s artistry.

While immersed in the narrative, I identified the parallels with classics like Otto Preminger’s Anatomy of a Murder (1959) and Alice Diop’s Saint Omer (2022), Triet’s film navigates a complex narrative that skilfully disorients and challenges the viewer’s perceptions. It also echoes the documentary realism of Jean-Xavier de Lestrade’s Staircase (2004-2018), adding layers of authenticity and intrigue.

This shift in my expectations made me introspect about our collective hunger for sensational stories. Why do we crave complex plots, and how does this reflect on our perception of female-led narratives in cinema? The film, in a subtle way, challenges these stereotypes and urges us to see beyond the conventional.

Cinematic Brilliance: The Art of Visual Storytelling

The cinematography in Anatomy of a Fall, crafted by Simon Beaufils, is a standout achievement. It recalls the iconic aesthetic of the Coen Brothers’ Fargo (1996), particularly in a poignant scene featuring Daniel, Sandra, and the body of Samuel Maleski.

Narrative Through the Lens: Beaufils’ Cinematographic Techniques

Moreover, Beaufils’ strategic use of close-ups is particularly noteworthy, delving deep into the characters’ inner worlds and capturing every subtle flicker of emotion with exceptional clarity. This approach not only enhances the storytelling but also connects the audience intimately with the characters’ experiences.

As Beaufils detailed in his interview with AFC, every element of the camera work in Anatomy of a Fall was meticulously planned to contribute meaningfully to the film’s narrative. Techniques such as tracking shots, crane movements, and Steadicam shots were not merely aesthetic choices but were purposefully employed to embody the complex journey of the characters.

This is especially evident in the portrayal of Sandra and her son, who find themselves entangled in a web of legal and emotional challenges. The camera movements are narrative tools that help to convey the evolving dynamics between the characters and their surroundings.

Furthermore, Beaufils’ cinematography brilliantly captures the essence of human relationships in all their forms – their beauty, intricacy, and sometimes their inherent cruelty. This depiction is not just visually striking but also deeply resonant, offering a compelling and nuanced exploration of the human condition.

The cinematography in Anatomy of a Fall serves as a vital component in unfolding the film’s complex thematic layers, making it a standout example of how cinematography can be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of a film’s narrative.

A Feminist Perspective: The Complexity of Sandra

This intense focus on the characters, especially on Sandra, made me reflect on how society often scrutinizes women’s emotions, reading too much into their every gesture or expression. This aspect of the film led me to contemplate the impact such scrutiny has on women’s autonomy and self-image. Are women’s emotions always under a microscope, their authenticity constantly questioned?

Triet’s narrative is an exploration of ambiguity, focusing not just on Sandra’s potential guilt but probing on the complex realms of truth and perception. Sandra’s character is a labyrinth of strength and vulnerability, challenging the stereotypical portrayal of women in cinema.

She is depicted not as a one-dimensional figure but as a multi-faceted individual, embodying the essence of feminist theory which argues that the personal is indeed political. Her struggles reflect the broader societal challenges faced by women, particularly in how they are perceived during crises. Sandra’s character becomes a medium to explore these feminist themes, questioning the roles and expectations society imposes on women.

Communication and Misinterpretation: Language Barriers in Focus

The exploration of language barriers in the film adds an insightful dimension to Sandra’s character, as she navigates her predominantly French surroundings. This element symbolizes the larger communication gaps in relationships and society, particularly relevant from a feminist perspective.

It made me think about how women often find themselves in spaces where their voices are sidelined or misinterpreted. This metaphor of linguistic challenges speaks volumes about the struggles women face in male-dominated spaces, trying to find and assert their voices.

Daniel’s Role: Seeing Beyond Sight

Daniel, the couple’s visually impaired son, portrayed by Milo Machado Graner, adds a poignant layer to the narrative. His journey in learning the piano, relying on senses other than sight, mirrors the film’s exploration of finding harmony in chaos. This metaphor can be seen as a reflection of feminist theory, where the quest for equality involves navigating through societal misunderstandings and biases about gender roles.

Conclusion: The Impactful Resonance of Anatomy of a Fall

In conclusion, Anatomy of a Fall is an introspective journey into the complexities of human nature and relationships. The film leaves us with lingering questions about understanding, truth, and perception.

Triet’s creation is a testament to the power of cinema to provoke thought and evoke profound emotions. Its subtle yet impactful engagement with feminist themes makes it not only an artistic masterpiece but also a significant commentary on gender and society. The film is a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that challenges, educates, and enlightens.