I've Loved You So Long

Juliette Fontaine, a former doctor, is finally released from prison after serving a lengthy sentence. Her return to society is filled with uncertainty as she faces the consequences of her past actions.

Upon her release, Juliette is welcomed into the home of her younger sister, Léa, along with Léa's husband and their two adopted daughters. This moment signifies the beginning of Juliette's reintegration into family life, despite the tension surrounding her past.

As Juliette begins to settle in, the harrowing truth of her incarceration surfaces. It is revealed that she spent 15 years in prison for the murder of her own son, Pierre, a fact that weighs heavily on both her and Léa.

Léa reflects on how their parents chose to disown Juliette after the crime, leading to a long period of estrangement. This decision left Léa without any means to understand her sister's silence during the trial.

In her quest for normalcy, Juliette struggles to find employment but receives support from her empathetic probation officer. She also finds understanding from Michel, a colleague of Léa, who helps her cope with her traumatic past.

Gradually, Juliette starts to form connections with her nieces, embracing opportunities for nurturing and family interactions. This progress is heartening but poses a challenge due to Léa's husband's concerns about Juliette's past.

Initially apprehensive about Juliette's presence, Léa's husband begins to soften his stance as he witnesses Juliette's nurturing nature. His observations help pave the way for a more harmonious family environment.

Léa encourages Juliette to visit their ailing mother in a nursing home, where she suffers from Alzheimer's disease. This emotional visit results in a poignant moment of recognition as their mother remembers Juliette from her childhood.

Léa uncovers critical information about the circumstances surrounding Pierre’s death. She learns that Juliette had diagnosed him with a terminal illness, which led to desperate actions driven by a desire to spare him pain.

Confronted by the shocking reality, Juliette explains her decision to end Pierre's suffering through an injection. This moment reflects her deep remorse and the heavy burden of guilt she has carried since that tragic day.

As the narrative builds to a climax, Léa and Juliette share an emotional exchange where they confront the darkness of their past. This cathartic moment allows both sisters to express their pain and begin the healing process.

In a reflective moment, after their emotional confrontation, Léa gazes out the window, captivated by the beauty of the rain. This serves as a metaphor for their shared experiences of sorrow and eventual hope.

Finally, Juliette's acknowledgment of her presence in the world is captured in her heartfelt statement, 'I am here.' This signifies her journey of seeking redemption and the desire to reconnect with her life and family.