Watch Ismael's Ghosts

Ismael's Ghosts is a French drama film released in 2017 directed by Arnaud Desplechin, starring Mathieu Amalric, Marion Cotillard, and Charlotte Gainsbourg. This captivating movie tells the story of Ismael Vuillard played by Mathieu Amalric who is a filmmaker, struggling with his creative process and trying to cope with his past. Ismael is in the midst of shooting his new film, which is inspired by his brother Ivan who disappeared without a trace over 20 years ago. However, his already complex life takes a twist when his long-lost wife Carlotta suddenly reappears after being missing for more than 20 years. As Ismael tries to juggle this newfound relationship with Carlotta, he struggles with his current relationship with Sylvia, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg. Sylvia is his girlfriend and a famous archaeologist who doesn't get along with his past.

Despite being married to Carlotta, Ismael is in love with Sylvia and they have a volatile relationship both personally and professionally. As Carlotta enters the scene, Ismael must finally confront the truth of what happened to Ivan, and remember the painful past memories that he has suppressed for a long time.

The movie masterfully balances Ismael's present and past timelines, cinematographically, displaying the multidimensional aspects of the human psyche. It is impressive how the intricate relationships of Ismael with Carlotta, Sylvia, and the fictional character in his new film all connect in the narrative.

Marion Cotillard's character of Carlotta is a reminder of the past that Ismael has deeply buried. She brings to light the haunting past that has been the driving force of his creativity, and though he has tried to live a life separate from it, Carlotta's appearance shatters the walls he has built up.

The character of Ismael is played brilliantly by Mathieu Amalric. Ismael's Ghosts is essentially his journey, and Mathieu Amalric portrays Ismael's struggle with his past and his present with such depth that the viewer can relate to him despite his flaws. As the film progresses, his character arcs towards being more mindful, accepting his past, and making peace with himself.

The music in the movie has been composed by the talented Grégoire Hetzel, and it is one of the highlights of the film. The music elevates the mood of the scene and evokes powerful emotions in the viewers.

The setting of the film is mostly in the French countryside, with breathtaking landscapes and stunning views. The use of natural light and colors in the cinematography further enhances the movie's beauty.

In conclusion, Ismael's Ghosts is a powerful drama film that covers complex themes of love, loss, grief, and acceptance. Desplechin's direction combined with the brilliant performances of the cast has created an exceptionally moving and visually-stunning movie. It's not an easy watch, but it's one that'll stay with you long after it's over.

Ismael's Ghosts is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5 and a MetaScore of 65.