F*ck My Life

Synopsis

F*ck My Life (original title: Kutleven), directed by Anne-Laure Vandeputte and released in 2020, is a Belgian dark comedy-drama that explores an unconventional approach to dealing with suffering and despair. The story follows three siblings who, after the death of their younger brother, navigate their grief and familial tensions through a surreal pact to keep his spirit embodied in a peculiar way. The film blends moments of dark humor with poignant emotional beats, offering a raw and sometimes unsettling look at how trauma can bring people together while exposing their vulnerabilities. With its candid exploration of death, family bonds, and the absurdity of life, F*ck My Life delivers a unique cinematic experience that balances discomfort with darkly comedic relief.

Cast

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  Anne-Laure Vandeputte

  Madelief

• Ellis Benjamin Dunne

• 

  Stefanie van Leersum

• 

  Eva Duijvestein

• 

  Bram Suijker

• 

  Ariane Schluter

Reviews

F*ck My Life received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised its bold approach to difficult themes and its unique tone blending dark comedy with drama. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of around 75%, with critics noting it as "a daring and provocative exploration of grief that challenges traditional narrative forms." Many reviewers highlighted Anne-Laure Vandeputte's direction as confident, successfully steering a story that walks a fine line between humor and tragedy. IMDb ratings average around 6.8/10, with users appreciating the film’s originality but some finding the mood uneven or the dark humor polarizing. Metacritic scores hover near 65, reflecting generally favorable reviews but acknowledging mixed responses to the film’s tonal shifts. The Guardian described it as "a compelling, if unsettling, portrayal of mourning wrapped in absurdity," while Variety mentioned, "Though the film occasionally struggles with cohesion, its frank treatment of familial sorrow and darkly comic moments make it a standout in contemporary European cinema." Overall, F*ck My Life is recognized for its courageous storytelling and distinctive voice, even if it may not appeal to all audiences due to its gritty subject matter and unconventional style.