Simon et Théodore. Dir. Mikael Buch. Menemsha Films, 2017. Kanopy. 84 minutes.
For plot summary and other details: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6545028/
Language: French
Subtitles: CC - English
Setting: 2017 (I’m guessing), Paris
Remarks: The introduction effectively establishes Simon. In the toy store, Simon reveals his desire to be the best father. Despite his recent release from the psychiatric ward, Simon seems prepared for fatherhood by exuding love for his unborn son. The internal conflict between this longing and his mental state makes me wonder who is “ready” for fatherhood and why that person would be. We assume that traits X,Y, and Z are necessary for a parent to have, but if he/she has a fault, we discount him/her. Simon, though in a fragile state, possesses X, Y, and Z. His time with Théodore brings out these qualities just as Simon helps Théodore empathize with his parents. Plus, the parallel between Théodore’s family situation and the father Simon wants to be creates an organic relationship between the characters.
On a final note, I like that the rabbi is female.
Keywords: fatherhood, family, mental health, contemporary, parallel narrative