IFC Films delivers a stark and unflinching examination of parenting, responsibility, and societal judgment in Armand, the deeply visceral drama from Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel. At the center of this tense narrative is Elisabeth (Renate Reinsve), a mother forced to confront devastating allegations against her son, Armand, after a disturbing incident at school. As the weight of grief, social divides, and moral ambiguity press down, Armand explores the complexities of parental love, the fear of betrayal, and the harsh realities of public scrutiny.
The film unfolds with an intensity that feels almost suffocating, drawing the viewer into its intricately woven layers of perspective and doubt. From the very start, the tension is thick, signaling that every detail matters. Key moments shape how we perceive the characters and their choices, making it essential to go in as blind as possible for the full impact. Reinsve delivers a riveting performance alongside Ellen Dorrit Petersen, both embodying the emotional turmoil of parents caught in a harrowing situation. Their presence fuels the film’s core themes—how far will we go to protect our own, and at what cost?
What sets Armand apart is its ability to immerse the audience in the psychological weight of its characters. Tøndel crafts a narrative of misdirection and intrigue, keeping the viewer questioning what they think they know. Cinematographer Pål Ulvik Rokseth and editor Robert Krantz add a polished and deliberate visual language that enhances the film’s tension, making each scene feel intimate and emotionally charged. The fly-on-the-wall approach deepens the unease, placing us directly within the uncomfortable conversations and unspoken truths.
With striking visuals, razor-sharp writing, and powerhouse performances, Armand stands as one of the most thought-provoking dramas of the year. Those willing to engage with its weighty subject matter will find it lingering long after the credits roll.
3/5
Armand
Written & Directed by: Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel
Cast: Renate Reinsve, Ellen Dorrit Petersen, Endre Hellesvtveit
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