Magical realism from France. Vicky is a wee girl living in a small town in the mountains. She adores her mother, but is disturbed when her father’s sister comes to stay, shattering their peace and reopening old wounds. What no one realises is Vicky has the ability to see the past, and in doing so learns secrets long hidden.
I liked how the film is from Vicky’s perspective, and as such, her ability is just taken for a fact, without needing any supernatural explanation. It also means that no one else is privy to what she’s discovering, or understands her weird behaviour. And even as the plot grows more serious, she still has a child’s priorities.
The format of sliding back and forth between the past and the present is handled really well, and it’s all really clear and easy to follow. Plus the mystery element never overshadows the fact it is at heart a kitchen sink drama. The Five Devils is about family strain, romance, friendship and betrayal.
Good watch with a kickass soundtrack.