Anatomy of a Fall (2023)

A psychological drama-thriller that dives into the complexities of marriage, trust, and the search for truth within a seemingly ordinary family’s life. The film follows Sandra, a German writer living in the French Alps with her French husband Samuel and their young son, Daniel, who is visually impaired. Their quiet life is upturned when Samuel is found dead under suspicious circumstances outside their chalet. The cause of his fall—accident, suicide, or something more sinister—is ambiguous, and Sandra quickly becomes the prime suspect in his death.

As the legal proceedings begin, the narrative unfolds with a forensic approach, exploring the intricacies of Sandra and Samuel’s relationship through flashbacks, court testimonies, and police interrogations. Sandra’s character comes under scrutiny as prosecutors, defense lawyers, and witnesses dissect her life, her writing career, and even her parenting style. Sandra is a layered protagonist; her enigmatic personality and occasional coldness are highlighted, casting doubt on her innocence and adding ambiguity to the case.

The court scenes are intense and layered, underscoring themes of perception and interpretation. The film raises the question of whether anyone can truly know what happens within a relationship, as even those closest to Sandra and Samuel had differing views on their marriage’s dynamics. Samuel’s struggles with his own career frustrations and emotional turmoil are juxtaposed with Sandra’s perceived detachment and ambition, creating a multifaceted portrayal of a marriage under strain. Their son, Daniel, becomes a silent but central witness, his disability emphasizing the story’s themes of limited perception and incomplete truths. His testimony in court, delivered in a poignant and heartbreaking scene, sheds light on his parents' relationship from a different angle, although his insights raise more questions than they answer.

Triet carefully examines how narratives are constructed, particularly in court, where each party constructs a version of reality. The film’s visuals are striking, with the secluded Alpine setting contrasting sharply with the intense scrutiny Sandra faces in the courtroom. Anatomy of a Fall ultimately becomes a meditation on the subjectivity of truth, challenging viewers to consider how easily they, too, might be swayed by appearances, biases, and incomplete information.