As the writer and director of the film, Jean-Loup Hubert conceptualized every aspect from his own imaginations. Hubert drew a lot of inspiration from his memories and childhood in conceiving the screenplay for the film. In fact, the role of Louis is played by Hubert’s own son which hits close to home in terms of inspiration and execution.
The apparent tone of the film is playful as a coming-of-age saga however Hubert blends in mature subject matters that bring poignancy and emotional weight. To accomplish this he frequently frames the characters within close-up shots that let the tension build to its climax. Moreover, he incorporates few cuts in between the scenes to maintain the intensity and vulnerability. He works in the metaphor of the title into film through the journey of life Louis takes from his childhood innocence into the world of adulthood. The couple too is on a path of grief and healing which the director charts through the emotional outbursts and revelations.
The director focuses on creating powerful imagery to accompany the momentous scenes and their main themes. Assuredly Hubert showcases the brutality of death in the scene Martine mutilates a rabbit during the process of skinning. He also handles the theme of sexuality through a sensual scene involving the couple engaging in intercourse, unaware that the kids were watching. Another instance that illustrates the influence the residents have had on Louis and vice versa is the scene he walks on the church roof in the presence of the townsfolk.
