The Truth

In the 2019 comedy-drama The Truth, director Hiroshi Kurosawa invites audiences into the glamorous yet complicated world of French cinema through the eyes of Fabienne, a legendary actress portrayed with charisma and depth. When she publishes her memoirs, it sets off a chain reaction that draws her estranged daughter Lumir back from New York to Paris, along with her husband and young child. What begins as a seemingly joyous family reunion quickly spirals into a whirlwind of conflict as Lumir confronts her mother about the truths laid bare in the memoirs, sparking a tumultuous exploration of their fraught relationship.

At its core, The Truth masterfully delves into themes of honesty, forgiveness, and the often-painful dynamics of family ties. Fabienne is portrayed as both a celebrated icon and a deeply flawed individual, capturing the audience's empathy even as her self-centeredness is laid bare. The film artfully juxtaposes the glitzy façade of celebrity life with the raw, emotional undercurrents that exist within familial bonds. As Lumir and Fabienne navigate their complex feelings of love, resentment, and the quest for understanding, viewers are treated to a poignant reflection on how the truths we tell—and those we hide—shape our relationships. With sharp wit and emotional resonance, The Truth invites us to consider the price of fame and the personal stories that lie behind public personas.