Gabrielle (2005)

Amidst the gilded elegance of Paris on the cusp of World War I, we find Jean Hervey, a man of substance and self-assured complacency. For a decade, he has found comfort in the steadfast predictability of his wife, Gabrielle, a woman as serene as a sculpture, as emotionless as stone. But one fateful day, Jean's world shatters when he discovers a letter from Gabrielle, confessing her departure to unite with a man she loves. Yet, before he can fully grasp the magnitude of his loss, Gabrielle returns, her resolve having crumbled. Over the course of two tension-laden days, Jean is caught in a whirlpool of questions and pleas, a desperate dance of denial and acceptance. Why did she contemplate leaving? What drew her back? Was their love ever genuine? And the question that haunts him most: who is the man that ignited the passion he thought his wife incapable of? Throughout this emotional maelstrom, Gabrielle remains as enigmatic as ever, her calm demeanor belying the storm that surely rages within. As Jean navigates the treacherous waters of doubt and desolation, fear grips him: is his beloved Gabrielle in danger? And when she extends an unexpected proposition, how will he reconcile his love for her with his wounded pride?

Gabrielle is a drama movie featuring Isabelle Huppert and directed by Patrice Chéreau.

Gabrielle is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy.