Oscar Nominee: Anatomy of a Fall Review

Oscars week reviews continue with Best Picture nominee Justine Triet’s French

legal drama Anatomy of a Fall. The film follows writer Sandra Voyter (Sandra Hüller) as

she finds herself the prime suspect in her husband’s death (Samuel Theis), with the

couple’s blind son (Milo Machado-Graner) as the sole witness. Triet’s film successfully

depicts the complicated hidden lives people lead, as well as the impacts thereof, by

executing a fascinating story, compelling cinematography, and standout performances

from the cast.

Despite boasting a two-and-a-half-hour runtime, Triet’s story wastes no time

getting started. The investigation behind Sandra’s husband’s death commences within

the first ten minutes. Additionally, the film earns that 150-minute runtime by gradually

rewarding the audience with glimpses into the couple’s relationship as the courtroom

proceedings unfurl. These measured reveals authentically allow the audience to call

Sandra’s innocence into question one minute, only to introduce a new piece of

information that makes you reevaluate your suspicions of her, resulting in an engaging

and rewarding watch.

Part of what makes the story so engaging is cinematographer Simon Beaufils’s

camerawork, particularly his use of diegetic footage. Sections of the film play out via

in-film camera footage. A reenactment of the events leading up to discovering the

husband’s body is shown through the POV a video camera recording the reenactment

as courtroom evidence. Viewers are periodically provided updates on the court case via

news footage and interviews with Sandra’s lawyer outside the courthouse. By

implementing diegetic footage Triet and Beaufils allow the audience to feel as if they are

following and emotionally invested in an actual legal case, adding to the film’s rewarding

viewing experience.

Hüller’s performance is entrancing. One moment she is a doting and concerned

mother to her son, Daniel, and the next she easily switches between frazzled, chilly, and

combative in the courtroom. Additionally, Machado-Graner’s performance as Daniel is

borderline heartbreaking as you see him not only process his emotions around his

father’s death but also reconcile what he is learning about his parents throughout the

trial. Most surprisingly, animal actor Messi outacts the majority of his human castmates

in a particularly harrowing scene as Daniel’s guide dog, Snoop. These performances

solidify the film as a full-on powerhouse.

In sum, Justine Triet's Anatomy of a Fall is a triumph that effortlessly weaves

together intricate storytelling, stunning cinematography, and powerhouse performances.

As Oscars buzz surrounds the film with five nominations, it's clear that Triet has

delivered a work of art that demands recognition. Whether you're drawn to gripping legal

dramas or simply appreciate masterful filmmaking, Anatomy of a Fall is a must-watch.

Prepare to be captivated, challenged, and ultimately rewarded by this compelling

exploration of hidden truths and the complexities of human nature.

By Thad Boone