Directed by Phillipe Lesage
Canada/Québec | 2018 | Fiction | 129 min | French w/ English subtitles
Film Source: Film Movement
Sponsors: Lorna-Kay Peal

Philippe Lesage’s Genesis is a rarity: a coming-of-age film that explores the angst of adolescence from both male and female, and gay and straight, perspectives. Charlotte (Noée Abita) is a college-age Montréaler navigating the perplexing landscape of newfound freedom and open relationships. Her 16-year-old half-brother, Guillaume (Théodore Pellerin), is a student at an all-boys boarding school coming to terms with his sexual identity in a severely repressive environment. Lesage makes some courageous narrative choices. Charlotte’s and Guillaume’s stories briefly overlap on just two occasions. A Faulkner-esque coda boldly ventures into uncharted cinematic waters more akin to experimental literature. Refreshingly free of clichés and with fluid camerawork and strong performances from its young leads, Genesis asks if the idyllic feelings of first love can be recaptured during the messy confusion of young adulthood. ~LB