I had a chance to speak to director Bernard Emond during TIFF this past year and while talking about this movie two things became clear and apparent. La Donation is about the damage the current economic situation can bring to towns anywhere in Canada and also how that inevitable human spirit has a way or the potential to rebuild that damage. In fact the director appears to be saying that the solution is within our own ability to put forth our humanity.
Be forewarned this movie does not have the frantic pace of most Hollywood offerings, but even that “weight” is in essence a gift because this movie has a way to make you ponder the light to be found even in a town full of misery. La Donation is actually the final part of a trilogy which focuses on the very christian values of hope, faith and charity. There are also quiet, understated but top notch performances all around, one standout being the obviously shell shocked Elise Guilbault playing a doctor from the city who has a hard time getting accustomed to the feel of a small town, and the fact that she not only sees her patients at the clinic. If you have the patience to stay with this film you will be rewarded with a thoughtful study of the responsibilities that come with commitment to others. Let us also hope that the rest of Canada gets to see a lot more of the great cinema being made in Quebec.
96 minutes/ Drama/ French with English Subtitles
Starring Élise Guilbault, Angèle Coutu, Jacques Godin
Playing at the Royal Cinema, Toronto.
Screenplay by Bernard Émond
Produced by Bernadette Payeur
About the Director
Bernard Émond was born in Montreal and studied anthropology. He has contributed to more than thirty films as director, screenwriter and editor. His extensive work as a documentary filmmaker includes Ceux qui ont le pas léger meurent sans laisser de traces (92), L’Instant et la patience (94), La Terre des autres (95), L’Épreuve du feu (97) and Le Temps et le lieu (00). He has directed the acclaimed feature films La Femme qui boit (01), 20h17, rue Darling (03), La Neuvaine (05), Contre toute espérance (07) and La Donation (09).
Trailer: