The Truth (2019) is a drama film written and directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, a renowned Japanese filmmaker known for his sensitive, human-centered storytelling. The film stars Catherine Deneuve, Juliette Binoche, and Ethan Hawke, among others, and explores themes of family dynamics, personal identity, and the complexities of truth and memory. It marked Kore-eda’s first venture into French cinema, blending his signature style with the cultural nuances of Europe.

The plot of The Truth revolves around Fabienne (played by Catherine Deneuve), a legendary French actress who is releasing her memoir. Her daughter, Lumir (Juliette Binoche), a screenwriter living in New York, returns to Paris with her husband (Ethan Hawke) and daughter to visit her mother. While the reunion is supposed to be a simple family gathering, it soon becomes clear that old wounds and unresolved issues between the two women resurface as they confront the truths of their past.

At the heart of the film is the complex relationship between Fabienne and Lumir. Fabienne is a woman who has lived much of her life in the public eye, and her memoir paints a version of herself that is carefully curated. However, Lumir, who has been estranged from her mother for years, begins to question the veracity of Fabienne’s recollections. As the layers of the story unfold, the film examines how each character interprets the past and how personal narratives are shaped by selective memory and bias.

In addition to the mother-daughter relationship, The Truth also delves into the impact of fame and how it can distort one’s sense of self. Fabienne’s identity as an actress has been so deeply intertwined with her public persona that it influences her personal relationships. The film subtly critiques the difference between public image and private reality, drawing a parallel between Fabienne’s fictional roles and the truth behind her life off-screen.

The performances in The Truth are exceptional, with Deneuve and Binoche delivering powerful portrayals of a complicated mother-daughter bond. Deneuve’s portrayal of Fabienne, a proud and somewhat aloof actress, is nuanced and full of depth, while Binoche brings warmth and vulnerability to the role of Lumir. Their chemistry on screen is magnetic, capturing the tension and affection that define their strained relationship.

Ultimately, The Truth is a meditation on the nature of truth itself. The film asks important questions about memory, identity, and reconciliation, leaving the audience to reflect on their own perceptions of truth and how it shapes their relationships. Through its tender exploration of family, The Truth is both a poignant and thought-provoking film, showcasing Kore-eda’s exceptional ability to capture the subtleties of human emotions and relationships.