Stranger by the Lake
Director: Alain Guiraudie
Actors: Pierre Deladonchamps, Christophe Paou, Patrick d'Assumçao
PlotFranck, a young man, frequents a secluded lakeside beach that is popular among gay men seeking casual encounters. He becomes infatuated with Michel, a strikingly handsome and mysterious man whom he meets there. Despite warnings from his new friend Henri, an older man who visits the lake for solace and companionship rather than sex, Franck is drawn to Michel's magnetism. The two quickly form a romantic and sexual relationship, and Franck's infatuation deepens. However, he soon witnesses a disturbing event involving Michel that raises unsettling questions about his new lover.
As Franck grapples with conflicting emotions—desire and alarm—he finds himself entangled in a complex web of passion, danger, and suspicion. Henri continues to offer a grounded, albeit cautious, perspective on the increasingly fraught situation. The serene lakeside setting becomes an oppressive backdrop as Franck's internal and external turmoil grows. Tensions escalate, leading to a gripping climax that forces Franck to confront the secrets he's been avoiding, ultimately challenging his perceptions of trust and love.
Writers: Alain Guiraudie
Release Date: 12 Jun 2013
Runtime: 100 min
Rating: Not Rated
Country: France
Language: French
Home Video Reviews
"Stranger by the Lake" meticulously blends atmospheric tension and compelling thrills with excellent picture quality, commendable sound, and insightful extras. Highly recommended.
Read our review of Stranger by the Lake Blu-ray L'inconnu du lac to find out more