Bastards

The events take place in contemporary France, reflecting modern social issues such as wealth disparity, family fracture, and the exposure of private sins in a digital age. The story shifts between urban Paris and the countryside, following a timeline consistent with a current, real-world pace. The era features internet cafes, mobile communications, and a culture of secrecy around wealth and power.

The drama unfolds primarily in Paris, where Sandra and her daughter Justine reside in a privileged area. Marco returns from abroad and moves into an upscale building nearby, drawing him into the circle surrounding a powerful creditor. The Vendée region is referenced as home to the family’s rural ties and Justine’s upbringing away from the city. A farm building used for illicit sex parties serves as a stark counterpoint to the city’s polished urban environment.

💔 Family

A central thread is the fraught restoration and collapse of family bonds, shaped by inherited wealth, debt, and past traumas. Marco seeks to repair his ties with Sandra while confronting the sins of his family line. The inheritance is less about money and more about moral responsibility and legacy. The film shows how family decisions ripple outward, hurting or binding siblings and children.

💼 Power

Wealth and influence enable predatory behavior and cover-ups around exploitation. Laporte’s wealth places him above the law, complicating relationships with Sandra and her daughter. The film critiques how money can corrupt justice and fuel predatory networks. Characters maneuver within a privileged world where secrets are guarded and danger escalates.

🌀 Trauma

The narrative centers on trauma from abuse, betrayal, and violence, and how survivors navigate blame and secrecy. Justine’s experiences drive much of the emotional tension and drive the family toward crisis. The film examines how trauma is concealed, discussed, or denied within a social circle. Repercussions of past abuse echo through present actions, shaping choices and loyalties.