By The Sea

Irene and her sister-in-law Sophie must confront their mutual grief and an uncertain future as they navigate their differences over the decision to sell their family home. This home, steeped in memories and shared experiences, has been a sanctuary for both women, representing not only a physical space but also a deep emotional connection to their loved ones who have passed. The walls of the house echo with laughter from family gatherings, the warmth of holiday celebrations, and the quiet moments of solace shared during difficult times. As they stand at this crossroads, Irene feels a profound sense of loss, grappling with the weight of nostalgia that the house embodies. Each room tells a story; the kitchen, where countless meals were prepared and shared, holds the aroma of family recipes passed down through generations. The living room, filled with photographs capturing joyful moments, reminds her of the laughter and love that once filled the air. For Irene, selling the house feels like severing ties with her past, an act that she fears may erase the legacy of those who have gone. On the other hand, Sophie approaches the situation from a different perspective. While she too is mourning the loss of family members, she views the decision to sell as a necessary step toward healing and moving forward. For her, the house represents a burden, a constant reminder of grief that makes it difficult to envision a future free from the shadows of loss. She believes that by letting go of the physical space, they can begin to forge new paths in their lives, allowing them to honor their loved ones in ways that are not tied to a specific location. This divergence in their viewpoints leads to a complex emotional landscape, filled with tension and unspoken feelings. Irene and Sophie find themselves in a delicate dance of empathy and frustration, each trying to understand the other’s perspective while grappling with their own pain. Conversations become charged with unexpressed emotions, as they navigate through memories that are both cherished and painful.

As they delve deeper into their discussions, they must confront not only their grief but also the realities of their differing visions for the future. Irene longs for the comfort of the familiar, while Sophie seeks the promise of new beginnings. This clash of ideals forces them to reflect on their relationship with each other as well, revealing layers of complexity that have been hidden beneath the surface. They must learn to communicate openly about their fears, hopes, and the love they still hold for those they have lost. Ultimately, the process of deciding whether to sell the family home becomes a pivotal moment for both women. It challenges them to reconcile their grief with the necessity of moving forward, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. In navigating this emotional journey, they may discover not only the strength of their bond but also the resilience that comes from embracing change, even in the face of heartache. Through this shared experience, Irene and Sophie have the potential to transform their grief into a source of strength, allowing them to honor their past while stepping into a future that, while uncertain, holds the promise of new beginnings.

Stephan Eigenmann, the film's director, hails from Fribourg, Switzerland. He holds a Master's degree in Creative Producing from Zurich University of the Arts and a diploma in directing and screenwriting from the Colorado Film School in Denver. As a freelance writer, production coordinator, and assistant, he works on TV series and feature film projects. Additionally, Stephan has co-written TV series and directed short films.