I Killed My Mother

The film opens with Hubert Minel delivering a poignant black-and-white monologue. He articulates his deep love for his mother while acknowledging the uncomfortable truth that he cannot stand being her son.

At 16 years old, Hubert navigates life in suburban Montreal alongside his single mother, Chantale. Their family dynamic has been severely disrupted since her divorce from his father, Richard, leading to emotional distance and tension.

An argument erupts during a car ride to school, highlighting the strain in Hubert and Chantale's relationship. Chantale's defiance leads to Hubert being ordered to get out and walk, intensifying their conflict.

In a moment of rebellion, Hubert tells his teacher, Ms. Cloutier, that his mother has died. This shocking claim is later uncovered, resulting in Ms. Cloutier chillingly telling Hubert, 'you killed your mother.'

Hubert confides in his mother about his wish to live independently. Although Chantale initially considers this idea, she quickly retracts her approval, deeming him too young to make such a decision.

Hubert's secret relationship with his boyfriend, Antonin, is inadvertently revealed when Antonin's mother mistakenly assumes Chantale is aware. This revelation adds to the already strained dynamics between mother and son.

Hubert's father visits and delivers the shocking news that he will be sent to a boarding school in Coaticook. This decision angers Hubert, who feels robbed of his agency and struggles with the fact that he rarely sees his father.

While at the Catholic boarding school, Hubert meets Eric and experiences a range of emotions. The pressures of teenage life cause him to betray Antonin, complicating his already tumultuous relationships.

After a night out at a nightclub filled with drug experimentation and intimate moments, Hubert returns home. This experience leads to an emotional confrontation with Chantale, further straining their bond.

Chantale drives Hubert to help Antonin's mother with a painting project, leading to a moment of intimacy between Hubert and Antonin. However, Hubert feels betrayed when he learns that he will remain at boarding school for another year.

Faced with bullying and emotional turmoil, Hubert decides to run away. He leaves a note for Chantale, stating he will be 'In his kingdom,' which she understands as their former family home.

In a heated exchange, the school principal admonishes Chantale for her parenting struggles. This confrontation compels Chantale to confront her own challenges as a single mother amidst the chaos.

With Antonin's support, Hubert embarks on an emotional journey after running away. This experience emphasizes the complexity of his relationship with both Antonin and his mother.

Chantale finds Hubert and Antonin at the beach, leading to a confrontation that encapsulates their fraught relationship. The emotional strain peaks as personal truths come to light during their encounter.

The film concludes with a nostalgic home video of Hubert as a child, capturing a time of innocence and simplicity with his mother. This bittersweet ending contrasts sharply with the tensions of their current reality.