Sundance 2023

The cruelty of youth rears its ugly head for young Eva, played brilliantly by Rosa Marchant. A strict father and alcoholic mother form the cornerstone of Eva’s troubled life, but that’s just the beginning. Our entrance into the story, though, is through the perspective of an older Eva (Charlotte De Bruyne), clearly tormented by her past traumas. And when Eva sets out on a trip back to her hometown on an apparent collision course with the source of her trauma, it’s through her memories and flashbacks that we get the window into her torment. 

This a challenging film to recommend because the source of Eva’s trauma does play out on screen, and it is incredibly uncomfortable to watch. It’s ugly, horrific, and potentially triggering for sensitive folks. I’m not quite sure how I feel about its inclusion. It certainly garners a visceral reaction and offers no catharsis. Afterward, I could not say I was glad I watched it. It’s a very well-made film, though. 

— 3 / 5 ⭐