Watch Ma Saison Preferee

Ma Saison Preferee is a French drama film from 1993, directed by André Téchiné and starring Catherine Deneuve, Daniel Auteuil, and Marthe Villalonga. The movie tells the story of Emilie (Deneuve) and her brother Antoine (Auteuil), who reunite after years of being apart. Antoine is a successful musician who has traveled the world, while Emilie is a respected social worker who dedicated her life to helping others. Despite their differences, the siblings share a deep bond that is tested when their elderly mother falls ill.

The movie begins with Emilie receiving a message from her brother, asking her to pick him up from the train station. It has been five years since they last saw each other, and Emilie is nervous about their reunion. She is afraid that Antoine will judge her for leading a conventional life, while she will feel inferior to his globetrotting adventures. On the way home, they catch up on each other's lives, but their conversation is awkward and superficial. They talk about the weather, the traffic, and the new highway that was built in their town.

However, as they spend more time together, their bond grows stronger. They reminisce about their childhood, their parents, and the games they used to play. They explore the nearby countryside, go to a bar, and meet Antoine's friends. Emilie is impressed by Antoine's charisma and charm, but also feels jealous of his carefree spirit. She wonders if she missed out by playing it safe and sticking to her routine.

Their fragile peace is shattered when their mother suffers a stroke and is hospitalized. Emilie insists on taking care of her, but Antoine is reluctant to be involved. He feels guilty for neglecting their mother and ashamed of his lack of responsibility. Emilie resents Antoine's selfishness and confronts him about it. They have a heated argument that reveals their deepest fears and insecurities. Antoine accuses Emilie of being judgmental and condescending, while Emilie accuses Antoine of being narcissistic and immature. They both break down in tears and hug each other.

The rest of the movie deals with their attempts to reconcile and make peace. They visit their childhood home, where they find old letters and photographs that shed light on their parents' marriage. They meet their mother's doctor, who informs them that her condition is irreversible. They have to decide whether to keep her on life support or let her go. They struggle with their conflicting emotions and the guilt of not being there for their mother.

The movie is a poignant and realistic portrayal of sibling relationships, family dynamics, and the complexities of love. It shows the different paths that people take in life, and the consequences of those choices. It also explores themes such as aging, death, regret, and forgiveness. The performances by Deneuve and Auteuil are outstanding, and their chemistry is palpable. They convey the subtleties of their characters' emotions with sensitivity and depth. The supporting cast is also excellent, especially Villalonga, who plays their mother with grace and dignity.

Overall, Ma Saison Preferee is a must-see movie for anyone who appreciates intelligent and profound cinema. It showcases French filmmaking at its best, with its nuanced storytelling, naturalistic acting, and beautiful cinematography. It will leave you with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia, but also with a renewed appreciation for life and the people you love.