When Fall Is Coming Movies (2025): A Haunting Family Drama with Layers of Mystery

French filmmaker François Ozon returns with When Fall Is Coming Movies  (2025), a gripping psychological drama that explores family tensions, guilt, and the weight of past mistakes. With a stellar cast led by Hélène Vincent, Ludivine Sagnier, and Pierre Lottin, the film delivers a slow-burning narrative filled with emotional depth and quiet suspense.

Michelle (Hélène Vincent) is a loving grandmother who eagerly awaits visits from her troubled daughter Valérie (Ludivine Sagnier) and grandson Lucas (Garlan Erlos). However, during one fateful gathering, Michelle mistakenly cooks a poisonous mushroom dish, making Valérie ill. This incident threatens to sever their already fragile relationship, leaving Michelle devastated at the thought of losing her grandson forever.

As Michelle struggles with guilt and uncertainty, her longtime friend Marie-Claude (Josiane Balasko) offers support, while her son Vincent (Pierre Lottin), recently released from prison, becomes an unexpected source of stability. The film slowly unravels the complexities of Michelle’s past, revealing secrets, regrets, and the lengths she will go to protect her family.

Ozon masterfully crafts a story that is deceptively calm yet brimming with tension. The film explores themes of maternal guilt, redemption, and the moral dilemmas that arise when trying to mend broken relationships. The restrained storytelling allows emotions to simmer beneath the surface, making every interaction feel weighty and significant.

The film’s biggest strength is its ability to create suspense through subtle character interactions rather than overt drama. Vincent’s presence adds an intriguing dynamic, as his protective nature contrasts with Michelle’s quiet desperation. However, some viewers may find the pacing slow, as much of the conflict unfolds through understated moments rather than dramatic confrontations.