8-year-old Vicky has a mysterious gift: she can recreate any scent she comes across, even that of her beloved mother Joanne. When her estranged aunt Julia suddenly returns to town, the invocation of her fragrance plunges the young girl back in time to unravel a past replete with family secrets.
A young girl named Vicky has a peculiar gift: she can capture scents in jars and recreate them, which allows her to revisit memories. As she grows older and her parents' marriage falters, she starts to uncover secrets about her family's past, particularly the intense bond between her mother and another woman. The film explores themes of desire, identity, and the complex nature of familial relationships through a fantastical lens.
The Five Devils received largely positive reviews from critics, who praised its unique premise, striking visuals, and emotional depth. It was commended for its exploration of complex themes and its blend of fantasy with grounded human drama. While some found its narrative occasionally elusive, the overall consensus highlighted its originality and artistic merit.
Google audience: Google users generally responded positively to 'The Five Devils,' highlighting its originality, emotional resonance, and artistic direction. Many appreciated the film's unique blend of fantasy elements with realistic human relationships and its exploration of themes like love and family secrets. Some viewers found the narrative a bit abstract but were still captivated by its visual beauty and imaginative scope.
Nominated for the Golden Bear at the 72nd Berlin International Film Festival. It also received nominations and awards at various film festivals, including the Lumières Awards for Best Screenplay.
Director Léa Mysius drew inspiration for the film's unique scent-capturing ability from personal childhood memories and an interest in the Proustian concept of involuntary memory, where scents trigger vivid recollections.
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