The House by the Sea (La Villa in French) is a 2017 French drama film directed by Robert Guédiguian. The film stars Ariane Ascaride, Jean-Pierre Darroussin, Gérard Meylan, Jacques Boudet, and Anais Demoustier.
The story follows the life of an old man named Armand (Meylan), who lives in a villa by the sea in Marseille. The villa was built by his father, and Armand has spent his entire life there. Now, at the end of his life, Armand's three children - Angèle (Ascaride), Joseph (Darroussin), and Armand's illegitimate son, who is only known as "The Kid" (Boudet) - have gathered to be with him for his final days.
As the family comes together, they begin to reflect on their lives and their father's legacy. Armand was a true community leader who believed in bringing people together and helping those in need. He had a special connection to the local fishermen and would often invite them over for dinner.
One day, a group of boat people arrive at a nearby cove seeking refuge. They are desperate and have nowhere else to go. Angèle, who is a schoolteacher, feels a special connection to them and wants to help. Joseph, on the other hand, is against helping them, and The Kid is indifferent.
As tensions rise, the family must confront their differences and decide whether to follow in their father's footsteps and help those in need. Ultimately, they realize that their father's values were not just about providing for others, but also about caring for one another as a family.
The House by the Sea was praised for its beautiful cinematography and touching performances, particularly by Ascaride and Darroussin.
