Movie Recommendation | A Film for Watching When Feeling Low 

Title: Things to Come (L'avenir)
Duration: 102 minutes
Ken's Rating: A

Looking for a pick-me-up movie to watch when you're feeling down? Look no further than "L'Avenir" (also known as "Things to Come").

The film follows Nathalie, a philosophy teacher in her fifties who is hit with a series of setbacks in both her personal and professional life. Her husband admits to having an affair, her career hits a snag, her mother attempts suicide, and even her favorite student turns against her. With her once peaceful and content life in shambles, Nathalie must figure out how to move forward.

But what sets this movie apart is Nathalie's ability to show strength and independence in the face of adversity. Throughout the film, there are no explosive arguments or pointless bouts of sadness. Instead, Nathalie remains rational, restrained, and composed as she navigates life's obstacles.

She handles the pain of her failed marriage with grace, neatly organizing and dividing their belongings, calmly communicating the end of their relationship, and maintaining their dignity even after they part ways. She chooses a comfortable nursing home for her mother despite her inner reluctance, relying on her logic to make the decision. And she allows time to heal the conflicts with her student, without needing to justify herself.

Through Nathalie's journey, we feel the warmth and coherence that come from a strong and self-sufficient spirit. As she says, "When I think that my children have left me, my husband has abandoned me, and my mother has died, and that I have regained complete freedom - complete freedom - well, it's wonderful." She doesn't complain or give up, and instead learns to enjoy life even when alone.

This French art-house film is an enjoyable watch, with a story that unfolds at a steady pace, accompanied by a romantic score that enhances the emotional impact of each turning point. Isabelle Huppert's portrayal of Nathalie exudes the beauty that comes with age and experience.

Most importantly, "L'Avenir" teaches us to accept what life brings us, to let our sadness flow away with time, and to muster the courage to move forward. So, when you're feeling down, give this movie a watch and let Nathalie's strength and perseverance inspire you.