Lilies
1952: Bishop Bilodeau visits a prison to hear the confession of Simon, a boyhood friend jailed for murder 40 years ago. However, once there, Bilodeau finds himself forced to watch a play put on by Simon and the other inmates depicting the two men's youths. As the play progresses, the tragic truth of Simon's crime comes to light.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1950s Quebec, a young man, Simon, is serving time in a juvenile detention center for murder. A sympathetic priest attempts to uncover the truth behind Simon's crime by staging a play, in which Simon must reenact the events leading up to the murder, playing the role of the young man he killed. The play reveals Simon's passionate and forbidden love affair with the victim and the societal pressures that ultimately led to tragedy.
Critical Reception
Lilies received critical acclaim for its poignant exploration of forbidden love, societal repression, and its powerful performances. The film was praised for its daring subject matter and artistic direction, though its challenging themes and non-linear narrative were noted.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its bold and unflinching look at homosexuality and religious hypocrisy in mid-20th century Canada.
- Lauded for its strong central performances and artistic visual style.
- Considered a significant and moving piece of LGBTQ+ cinema.
Google audience: N/A
Awards & Accolades
Won the Golden Bayard at the Namur International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the 1981 novel 'The Lying Truth' by Patrick Quentin.
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