Jamie passion and passionfruit!

A most enjoyable French Canadian film about five brothers growing up in the 60’s and 70’s.  The film is seen through the eyes of the 4^th son who is a non-conformist, a bit of a healer and is sexually ambivalent.  The scenes in which he imitates David Bowie are great.  All this, growing up in a conservative Catholic society with a macho father and a drug addict brother for starts means that there is plenty of drama to come.  But Jean-Marc Vallee handles everything with a lightness of touch and a sense of humour that is tremendous and keeps us engaged, laughing and delighted.  There are many small touches in this film, repeated mementoes, interesting camera work that make the film very personal and authentic.  Marc André Grondin does good work as the lead – Zach and Michel Cote as the father is also a delight.    This is not only a good film about families but about life, identity and expectations and there is plenty of wisdom in it.  A good soundtrack and my only criticism might be the somewhat cardboard portrayals of some of the brothers.  Otherwise, a most deserving Canadian film of the year that we have been lucky enough to see here.

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