The Barbarian Invasions

About This Movie

So, 'The Barbarian Invasions' is this interesting blend of comedy and drama, following Remy, a college professor facing terminal cancer. The film has this relaxed pacing, allowing for long, meaningful conversations that really dig into themes of family, regret, and the passage of time. The performances are solid; particularly, the chemistry between Remy and his son Sebastian feels raw and lived-in. Arcand's direction maintains a thoughtful tone, which is quite a shift from the more satirical edge of its predecessor. The practical effects are minimal, but the film isn’t about grand visuals; it's about the weight of the dialogue and the emotional landscapes of its characters. You get a real sense of Montreal's landscape, too, which adds to its charm.

French with English subtitles, 99 mins runtimeWon the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language FilmFollow-up to 'The Decline of the American Empire' (1986)Features a mix of veteran and contemporary Canadian actors