Exploring Deep Questions Behind Folichonneries
Eric K. Boulianne’s debut feature film, “Folichonneries,” blends humor with a thoughtful exploration of modern relationships. Set for release on January 30, the film delves into the complexities of keeping love alive in long-term partnerships.
Exploring Deep Questions Behind Folichonneries
The film tackles themes of sexuality, polyamory, and the desire to maintain intimacy in established relationships. Boulianne emphasizes, “This isn’t just a movie about sex; it’s about love.” This sentiment is echoed by Catherine Chabot, who plays Julie, illustrating a couple’s journey toward personal growth and mutual understanding.
Setting and Production Details
The film’s promotional event was uniquely hosted at Club L, a location that reflects its themes. Two scenes were filmed there, and Boulianne suggests a desire to normalize discussions about non-traditional relationships. He notes, “These topics are becoming mainstream,” and points out the previous conservatism in Quebec cinema regarding such matters.
In “Folichonneries,” audiences follow François and Julie—characters striving to reignite their passion after years together and the challenges of parenthood. With a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, they explore various aspects of open relationships, including threesomes and BDSM.
The Approach to Sensitive Topics
- Realism Over Glamour: The film approaches sexuality candidly, focusing on real-life scenarios rather than sensationalism.
- Intimacy Coordination: Scenes involving sexual content were carefully orchestrated with actors and an intimacy coordinator to ensure comfort and realism.
- Emotional Depth: Boulianne indicates that navigating emotional landscapes proved more challenging than filming sexual scenes.
Co-writer Alexandre Auger joins Boulianne in addressing how parenting influences relationship dynamics. They explore the idea of “rediscovering” personal identity within committed partnerships. “It’s not just about sexuality; it’s about communication and self-awareness,” Boulianne explains.
Conclusion: A Film for Reflection
While “Folichonneries” features explicit content, it avoids glorifying it. Instead, it invites viewers to engage in meaningful conversations about love and relationships. The film aims not to turn everyone towards non-monogamy but to present a nuanced portrayal of love’s challenges and triumphs.
As it hits theaters on January 30, “Folichonneries” promises to be a thought-provoking piece that sparks dialogue about the nature of love in contemporary life.
