Still disturbed by nightmares, and easily spooked by unexplained sounds, Abbas is waking up in the middle of the night. He has a lot on his mind. He is with his children, but not their mother. The children complain about the food their father makes, but they also complain about their immigrant status – a status that hangs on a tenuous edge.

He develops a relationship with a local woman, Carole. Together they wrestle the complex issues of trying to manage a relationship where there are kids involved. Together they find there way through the maze of the immigration system.

 This film shows the life of an immigrant caught in limbo. The shared facilities, the legal troubles, the setbacks, the moral challenges. Relationships are stressed and work has too many distractions that lead to losing of tempers. They face the choice of deportation or humiliation and dramatic steps are taken when faced with this difficult choice.

 The film’s natural style leaves minimal distraction so we can take in the understated performances that are heartfelt and genuine.

 Eriq Ebouaney gives a towering and dignified performance as he portrays a father going through a very difficult situation. Sandrine Bonnaire is also excellent as Carole who has challenges she’s not accustomed to while also giving love and support to Abbas.

 The film’s message is clear – comparing their plight with the Jewish request for asylum in 1938 which were refused. This is a personal and powerful message to the viewer of the difficult plight of the refugee.

Michael Collins

@dustforeyes

A Season in France screens on Sunday June 10 and Wednesday June 13 at Sydney Film Festival .