i totally disagree with the comment of one of the critic before me who bash the film . have read the book and be impress by it although this be a kind of literature that you can not really like ( similar to hubert selby write ) i expect be shock but the effect be more subtle than this . isabelle hubert be a brilliant actress who manage to convey a multi layer character . there be many scene that totally focus on her and her subtle change and i can imagine few actress who would do so well and with so much disregard for their own reputation or image . there be this coldness and distance and cruelty and at the same time there this helplessness and hurt and pain . there a person who in control and control at the same time . maybe this be not realistic although when you read the newspaper you will read about much bad than this but there a truth to it that be very difficult to bear . i think it an excellent film but i do not enjoy watch it . it not bore but there be time when i wish it would end . btw and her male counterpart be very well act as well ( and i think well choose and too ) .