Adapted from Rachel Cusk’s book Arlington Park, Isabelle Czajka’s film portrays the quotidian obligations of a group of suburban housewives and mothers. Juliette (Emmanuelle Devos) and family have recently relocated, and she struggles to fit an appointment vital to her career into a schedule filled with errands and the activities of her children. Old schoolmate Betty (Julie Ferrier) and her friends, on the other hand, lead the lives of more traditional housewives. Dissatisfied with their lot, and their unsupportive husbands, the film paints a stark portrait of family life. (Notes by Kevin Coyne.)

Director’s Note: The director succeeds brilliantly in capturing the oppressive atmosphere and the developing anxieties while making compelling viewing. The acting is faultless.

This film is showing as part of the Carte Noire IFI French Film Festival (November 20th – December 1st, 2013).