A Private Life (2025)
Story overview
A Private Life is a 2025 French drama, crime, and mystery film directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, starring Jodie Foster, Daniel Auteuil, Virginie Efira, Mathieu Amalric, and Vincent Lacoste. The story follows psychiatrist Lilian Steiner, who becomes convinced that the death of her long-time patient Paula, officially ruled a suicide, is actually an unsolved murder. As she investigates, the film explores themes of grief, obsession, and the blurred lines between professional duty and personal involvement, set against a tense, atmospheric backdrop.
Parent Guide
A Private Life is a mature, psychologically intense film that explores dark themes such as death, suicide, and murder. It is best suited for older teens and adults due to its complex narrative and emotional depth. The R rating reflects strong content that may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Content breakdown
The film includes themes of death and murder, with scenes depicting a suicide investigation and implied violence. There may be tense moments and psychological peril as characters delve into the mystery, but graphic violence is not prominent.
Content is disturbing due to its focus on suicide, grief, and the psychological unraveling of characters. The atmospheric tension and mystery elements can be unsettling, making it potentially scary for sensitive viewers.
Expect occasional strong language or profanity in line with the film's dramatic and intense tone, but it is not excessive.
No significant sexual content or nudity is indicated based on the overview and genres.
No notable substance use is mentioned or implied in the provided information.
High emotional intensity due to themes of loss, obsession, and moral conflict. The film's psychological depth and suspenseful plot can be emotionally draining for viewers.
Parent tips
This R-rated film is intended for mature audiences due to its intense themes and content. It deals with death, suicide, and murder investigations, which may be disturbing for younger viewers. The psychological tension and emotional complexity require a level of maturity to process. Parents should consider the film's dark tone and subject matter before allowing teens to watch, and it is not suitable for children under 13.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
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- What did you think about Lilian's decision to investigate Paula's death on her own?
- How did the film handle the topic of suicide, and did it feel respectful or sensationalized?
- What themes about trust and deception stood out to you in the story?
- How did the setting and atmosphere contribute to the movie's mood?
- Would you recommend this film to friends, and why or why not?
Where to watch
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Trailer
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