It's Only the End of the World

After a 12-year absence, Louis, a 34-year-old playwright, makes his return to his family in a place known simply as 'Somewhere.' This unexpected visit is filled with anticipation and tension as they have all changed during his long absence.

Upon his return, Louis is met with surprise by his mother Martine and encounters Antoine's wife, Catherine, for the first time. This initial meeting is fraught with awkwardness as emotions run high, setting the tone for the family dynamics that will unfold.

During their conversation, Catherine nervously shares stories of her and Antoine's children. She reveals that one of their children is named after Louis, a gesture that highlights the family's connection despite the years apart.

As Catherine reminisces, Antoine's frustration with Louis becomes apparent when he snaps at him. This confrontation marks the beginning of escalating tensions among family members, exposing unspoken grievances and unresolved issues.

During a crucial phone call, Louis contemplates his wish to disclose his terminal illness to his family before he leaves once more. This internal struggle adds another layer of complexity to his already fraught visit.

In a private moment in the hallway, Louis and Catherine attempt to bridge the emotional gap that has formed. Catherine shares her concerns about Antoine's minimal communication about Louis, hinting that deeper truths may lie beneath the surface.

Martine confronts Louis about his responsibilities as a family member, urging him to take a more active role in their lives. This confrontation highlights Martine's unease about Louis's choices and her desire for him to reconnect with his roots.

Longing for the past, Louis expresses a desire to revisit their old home, prompting a dispute that reveals the unresolved tensions within the family. This moment illustrates the pain and nostalgia that Louis feels, complicating his already strained relationships.

On a car ride with Antoine to the shops, Louis's attempt at small talk is met with irritation. This interaction underscores the unresolved issues between them and highlights Louis's feelings of being an outsider in his own family.

During a tense family dinner, Louis promises to visit more frequently and invites Suzanne to spend time with him. This promise, however, feels more like an attempt to placate tensions than a true resolution.

As Louis prepares to leave, Antoine insists on driving him to the airport, intensifying the family's conflict. This decision forces Louis to confront the emotional fallout of his absence and the expectations of his family.

The tension culminates when Antoine's frustration boils over, revealing his feelings of being the outcast. This moment exposes the underlying family dynamics and unresolved anger that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Ultimately, Louis leaves without sharing the devastating news of his terminal illness, creating a poignant silence that hangs over the family. This lack of closure leaves both him and his family grappling with unspoken truths and emotional distance.