On the Wandering Paths
France
•
1h 33m
Directed by Denis Imbert • Drama • 2024 • 95 minutes
A celebrated writer with a penchant for extreme experiences and solo treks, Pierre (Jean Dujardin), is a survivor of his own life. He has always done everything on his terms. One drunken evening, he climbs the facade of a building and falls several stories. The accident leaves him in a deep coma. When he emerges from it, Pierre is barely able to stand. But against everyone’s advice, he decides to hike alone across France, through some of its roughest and beautiful regions.
During Pierre’s journey, there are snapshots of daily life in largely abandoned French villages, where many of the shops have closed and jobs are scarce. Director Denis Imbert intermingles Pierre’s inner emotional journey with the natural beauty of the French countryside and reflections on rural life. Based on real events, this escape from the frantic world, is a story of fortitude, healing and connection to nature.
“At the end of this journey, there is simply a man who enjoys “disappearing into geography”, and an actor who enjoys regenerating himself there.” —Le Point
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