In a Better World (2022)
A French family's quiet life is shattered by one instinctive act of compassion toward a young immigrant on the run.
In a Better World - Movie Information
- Original Title: Les Engagés
- Release Year: 2022
- Directed by: Émilie Frèche
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Original Language: French
- Spoken Languages: French
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 16, 2022 (France - TP)
- Production Companies: Chapka Films, Tandem
- Production Countries: France
In a Better World - Plot
On the road of Briançon, David's car hits a young immigrant chased by the police. Instinctively, David hides him into the boot, and brings him to his home with his wife Gabrielle and his two children. Upset by this teenager's fate, David will help him by all costs.
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In a Better World - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Émilie Frèche
Main Cast
- Benjamin Lavernhe
- Julia Piaton
- Bruno Todeschini
- Hakim Jemili
- Catherine Hiegel
- Jean-Marc Michelangeli
- Sacha Bejaoui
- Youssouf Gueye
- Luna Bevilacqua
- Éléonore Bernheim
Writers
- Émilie Frèche
- Gaëlle Macé
Producers
- Laetitia Galitzine
In a Better World - FAQs
What is In a Better World about?
In a Better World follows David, a French father who accidentally hits a young immigrant fleeing the police near Briançon. Acting on instinct, he hides the teenager in his car and brings him home. What begins as a split-second decision gradually forces David, his wife Gabrielle, and their children to confront questions of solidarity, justice, and moral courage.
Is In a Better World based on a true story?
While not based on a single documented event, the film draws heavily from the real humanitarian crisis at the French-Italian border near Briançon, where volunteers and ordinary citizens have faced legal consequences for helping migrants cross the Alps. Director Émilie Frèche grounds the story in this very real and ongoing social reality.
Where can you watch In a Better World online?
You can check current streaming and rental options for In a Better World on JustWatch, which lists all available platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your country, so it's worth checking there for the most up-to-date viewing options.
Why does David hide the immigrant in his car?
David's decision is entirely instinctive — he hits the young man with his car as police are chasing him and, in a moment of panic and empathy, conceals him rather than hand him over. The film is deeply interested in that split-second moral reflex and how it snowballs into a life-changing commitment for the whole family.
Who are the main actors in In a Better World?
The film stars Benjamin Lavernhe and Julia Piaton as David and Gabrielle, the couple at the heart of the story. They're joined by Hakim Jemili, Bruno Todeschini, and Catherine Hiegel in key supporting roles, with Youssouf Gueye and Sacha Bejaoui among the younger cast members.
Does In a Better World have a happy ending?
The film resists easy resolution. Rather than offering a tidy happy ending, it stays honest about the personal and legal costs of choosing solidarity. The conclusion is emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, leaving viewers to weigh what it truly means to do the right thing when the stakes are real.
Who directed In a Better World?
In a Better World was directed by Émilie Frèche, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Gaëlle Macé. Frèche is known for her humanist storytelling, and this film reflects her interest in the ethical dilemmas faced by ordinary people caught between law and conscience.
What films are similar to In a Better World?
If In a Better World resonated with you, you might also enjoy Hadewijch (2009), Houria (2023), Hold Me Tight (2021), Haute Couture (2021), and Sidonie in Japan (2024) — all French-language films that explore moral complexity, human connection, and characters navigating difficult personal choices.
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