A Christmas Tale

Movie Details:

Cast & Characters:

• Catherine Deneuve as Junon Vuillard
• Jean-Paul Roussillon as Abel
• Anne Consigny as Elizabeth Dédalus
• Mathieu Amalric as Henri Vuillard
• Chiara Mastroianni as Sylvia Vuillard
• Melvil Poupaud as Ivan Vuillard
• Emmanuelle Devos as Faunia
• Hippolyte Girardot as Claude Dédalus
• Laurent Capelluto as Simon
• Émile Berling as Paul Dédalus
• Françoise Bertin as Rosaimée Vuillard
• Samir Guesmi as Spatafora
• Thomas Obled as Basile “Baz” Vuillard
• Clément Obled as Baptiste Vuillard
• Azize Kabouche as Dr. Zraïdi

Storyline:

The troubled Vuillard family is no stranger to illness, grief, and banishment, but when their matriarch requires a bone-marrow transplant, the estranged clan reunites just in time for Christmas.

About A Christmas Tale Movie:

A Christmas Tale (Un conte de Noël) is a French Christmas comedy-drama film co-written and directed by Arnaud Desplechin. The film features a stellar cast, including Catherine Deneuve, Jean-Paul Roussillon, Mathieu Amalric, Anne Consigny, Melvil Poupaud, Emmanuelle Devos, and Chiara Mastroianni.

Plot Summary

The narrative revolves around the Vuillard family, who gather at their parents’ home for Christmas after learning that the matriarch, Junon (played by Deneuve), has leukemia and requires a bone marrow transplant. This family reunion exposes deep-seated tensions and strained relationships among the family members. As they confront their past grievances and secrets, the film explores themes of illness, familial duty, and the complexities of love during the holiday season.

Production Details

Un conte de Noël was produced by Why Not Productions and features a screenplay co-written by Desplechin and Emmanuel Bourdieu. The film was well-received at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the prestigious Palme d’Or.

Reception

Released on December 11, 2008, in France, A Christmas Tale garnered positive reviews from critics for its sharp writing and strong performances. It earned approximately $7.3 million at the box office and has been praised for its blend of humor and drama, providing a unique take on Christmas traditions that often highlight family dysfunction.

Legacy

The film stands out for its candid portrayal of family dynamics during the holidays, showcasing both the joy and sorrow that can accompany such gatherings. Its exploration of serious themes amidst a festive backdrop has made it a notable entry in contemporary holiday cinema.

Budget & Box Office Collection: