Michael here…

As American filmgoers, we watch movies to be entertained. We tend to enjoy lots of flash and special effects. We like for our stories to be neat and cleanly explained. Foreign filmmakers do not seem to care much about any of that. So, the movie that I recommend should include this warning: Do not expect to be hand fed, you will have to think for yourself, and chew on it. But if you do, I believe the experience will be well worth it. The movie is Le Fils (The Son). It was directed by the Dardenne brothers, who are expert storytellers. It’s in French with English subtitles, but don’t let that hold you back. This movie is deeply spiritual without slapping you in the face. The pace is slow, but builds like a freight train, so hang in there in the early going. Although released in 2002, I only got around to watching it this year, and it is easily one of the 10 best movies I’ve seen this year. The emotion is gripping, and left me broken and hopeful all at the same time. Happy Viewing!