Having lost everything in the bankruptcy of her architectural firm, Stephanie has no choice but to return to live with her mother, Jacqueline, in the south of France. As she looks for a job to regain control of her life, she is forced to deal with the little habits of her mother, who has lived alone since the death of Stephanie’s father the previous year. A family dinner with her sister Carole and brother Nicolas reveals the secrets each one is hiding...

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At first glance, there is no reason to expect much from Retour chez ma mère, directed by Eric Lavaine (Bienvenue à bord et Barbecue), starring the popular Josiane Balasko, Alexandra Lamy and Mathilde Seigner*. It therefore makes a nice surprise, largely driven by the comic energy of the actresses – a special mention goes to Seigner, who is particularly touching and convincing in this secondary role that suits her perfectly. The script is unsurprisingly simple, availing itself of some very classically slapstick moves and a few skillful flashes of humor. The movie is sufficiently moving to be memorable – provided you realize from the outset what kind of story you’re in for.