Anatomy of a Fall
Overview
Anatomy of a Fall is a 2023 French legal drama film directed by Justine Triet, starring Sandra Hüller as Sandra Voyter, a successful German writer; Swann Arlaud as her lawyer, Vincent; and Milo Machado Graner as her son, Daniel. The film is set in the French Alps. Sandra's husband, Samuel (Samuel Theis), is found dead outside their chalet. The cause of death is unclear: did he fall, or was he pushed? Sandra is accused of murder. The film follows the trial, which is a gripping, suspenseful, and emotionally complex exploration of marriage, truth, and the nature of evidence. Daniel, who is visually impaired, is the only witness. He testifies that he heard his parents arguing before his father's death. The film is a slow-burn, intellectual thriller. It does not provide easy answers. The film ends with Sandra being acquitted, but the audience is left unsure of her guilt. Anatomy of a Fall won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Sandra Hüller. It won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
