Farewell, Mr. Haffmann

<p><img alt="Laurel icon denoting the film is in competition for a Jury Prize." border="0" src="https://data.ajff.org/sites/default/files/2023-01/laurel_2023_JuryPrize_01.png" style="width:20%; max-width:20%; margin-left:10px; float:right;" />In this gripping wartime thriller probing issues of conscience and character, a French-Jewish jeweler is caught in a Faustian pact that will change the fate of all involved. When the Nazis occupy Paris, Joseph Haffmann (Daniel Auteuil) arranges for his family’s escape and hastily signs over his humble shop to trusted right-hand man François (Gilles Lellouche). As fortunes reverse, Haffmann is now at his employee-turned-collaborator’s mercy, trapped hiding in the basement to avoid deportation. As relationships fray, and François turns the screws on Haffmann, greed, deception and courage culminate in a sobering coda. Impeccable performances and unpredictable twists mark this superbly crafted morality tale based on an award-winning play by Jean-Philippe Daguerre.</p>