Let's be realistic.

Disturbing yet enthralling

The thing I enjoyed most about the film is the fact that it doesn't shy away from being a super-sized-cliche;

This is one of the best movies I’ve seen in a very long time. You have to go and see this on the big screen.

I thought I would not like this film as it deals with the death of someone's child, afraid it would be depressing. In fact it was the opposite. The film maker is actually very careful to not get maudlin or sentimental and focuses instead on the mother's grieving process. However the superb acting of Guylaine Tremblay manages to convey a lot without excess emotion, we see the internal struggles not the external emotions. As well the winter St. Lawrence provides an other worldly setting that is apart from the every day world. Much of the picture is the main character herself alone in that world, which was excellent at conveying the separateness of those who grieve, how they are apart from the rest of us. The use of music throughout, the natural setting and the creative images provided by beloved relatives who have passed provided a depth that was letter perfect. The director Catherine Martin also provides an ending that is also perfect for this film. Overall a film that leaves images and sound resonating after you watch it.