River Bank

Synopsis

"River Bank" (original title: "Un monde ailleurs") is a poignant French drama directed by Lionel Bailliu, starring Émile Berling. The film explores the complexities of adolescence through the story of Camille, a young boy grappling with identity, family secrets, and the search for belonging. Set against the serene yet symbolic backdrop of a riverbank, the narrative unfolds with emotional depth, highlighting themes of friendship, trauma, and reconciliation. Through evocative storytelling and nuanced performances, "River Bank" invites viewers to reflect on the unseen struggles that shape youth and the enduring hope found in connection and understanding.

Cast

• 

  Émile Berling

• 

  Alain-Fabien Delon

• 

  Pierre Prieur

• 

  Paul Bartel

• 

  Ernst Umhauer

Reviews

"River Bank" has received generally positive attention from critics, praised chiefly for its sensitive portrayal of adolescence and strong lead performance by Émile Berling. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a respectable approval rating around 85%, with reviewers highlighting its atmospheric cinematography and intimate storytelling. Critics have described it as "a tender and evocative coming-of-age story" (Le Monde) that "balances raw emotion with understated direction" (Cineuropa). However, some reviews pointed out the film's slow pacing and occasional narrative ambiguity, which may challenge viewers seeking a more conventional plot. Metacritic scores average close to 70, reflecting generally favorable reviews but noting that the film's subtlety might not appeal to all audiences. IMDb users rate the film around 7 out of 10, often praising the authenticity of characters and emotional resonance but occasionally commenting on the film’s understated approach. Overall, "River Bank" is celebrated for its artistic ambition and heartfelt drama, appealing particularly to fans of introspective, character-driven cinema.

See also

Pierrot le Fou

Down to Earth

Fantozzi Retires

Hellraiser: Revelations