Honest Reflections: A Captivating Review of ‘We Believe You’ – Eye For Film

We Believe You marks the impressive debut of directors Charlotte Deville and Arnaud Dufeys. This film takes on the courtroom drama genre but brings a fresh perspective. With a runtime of just 78 minutes, it balances legal intricacies with emotional depth.

The story centers around Alice (Myriem Akheddiou) as she gears up for a custody hearing. The film opens with intimate, shaky shots of Alice and her son, Etienne (newcomer Ulysse Goffin), portraying his reluctance and fear about the court proceedings. Alice’s daughter, Lila (Adele Pinckears), has a calming influence on her younger brother, highlighting the sibling bond during this tough time.

Once inside the courtroom, the filming style shifts to steady, well-composed shots that emphasize the gravity of the situation. As the custody hearing unfolds, we meet Alice’s ex-partner and his representative, alongside their counselor, the judge, and a children’s services attorney. Together, they create a tense environment where everyone is invited to share their truth.

This hearing is significant because it reopens a case previously closed due to new evidence related to serious allegations against the father. The narrative carefully explores the complexities and imperfections of the legal system. Unlike dramatic courtroom scenes in other films, the settings here are more subdued, yet the stakes couldn’t be higher: for Alice, it’s her children’s future, and for the father, his reputation hangs in the balance.

While the film might seem to lack a clear resolution at the end, this choice feels intentional. Instead of offering easy answers, Deville and Dufeys focus on the characters and the impact of their decisions. They illustrate the nuances of a custody battle between two decent individuals, making it both relatable and thought-provoking.

What makes We Believe You stand out is its strong performances and meticulous direction. The filmmakers reveal character details through thoughtful framing and clever use of reaction shots, which enrich the emotional experience. With the skillful camera work of Pepin Struye, dynamic editing by Nicolas Bier, minimalist production design by Mathilde Lejeune, and evocative music by Lolita Del Pino, this film captures and holds the viewer’s attention throughout.

Reviewed on: 18 Feb 2025