Three Days and a Life (Trois jours et une vie, 2019) is a French-Belgian drama-thriller directed by Nicolas Boukhrief, based on the novel by Pierre Lemaitre. Set in a quiet village in the Ardennes, the film is a gripping exploration of guilt, loss, and the weight of secrets over time.
In 1999, 12-year-old Antoine (Jรฉrรฉmy Senez) experiences a life-changing series of events. His dog dies, his neighborโs father has a heart attack, and he accidentally kills his young neighbor Rรฉmi in a fit of anger. Terrified, Antoine hides Rรฉmiโs body in the forest and keeps the truth a secret as the village launches a desperate search for the missing boy.
As a violent storm ravages the region, destroying evidence and isolating the village, Antoine is left to grapple with his guilt and fear of being discovered. The story follows him into adulthood, where his secret continues to haunt him, shaping his relationships and choices.
Years later, new developments force Antoine to confront the consequences of his actions, leading to a tense and morally complex conclusion.
Three Days and a Life was praised for its atmospheric tension, nuanced performances, and faithful adaptation of the source material. Critics highlighted Pablo Pauly’s portrayal of the adult Antoine and the way the film balances character study with suspense. While some found the storyโs slow-burning nature demanding, others appreciated its exploration of complex moral dilemmas.
The film stands out as a thoughtful and chilling drama, exploring how a single moment can define a lifetime. Its combination of psychological depth and gripping storytelling appeals to fans of morally intricate thrillers.