La Promesse (1996)

In the grime-streaked underbelly of Belgium, 15-year-old Igor, a budding mechanic, finds himself ensnared in the morally bankrupt world of his father, Roger. The latter, a hardened opportunist, ruthlessly exploits the desperation of undocumented immigrants, smuggling them into the country only to ensnare them in a life of squalor and near-slavery. His empire, built on the backs of these unwitting newcomers, teeters precariously on the edge of legality, housing them in conditions barely fit for habitation and paying them a pittance to toil away on construction projects. However, the precarious equilibrium of this sinister underworld is disrupted when Amidou, one of the immigrants, falls from a scaffold during a surprise building inspection. In the frantic chaos of the moment, Igor makes a solemn promise to the injured Amidou, a vow that sends him spiraling on a collision course with his father's ruthless values. Torn between loyalty to his father and a burgeoning sense of responsibility, Igor grapples with his guilt and the weight of his promise. Amidou's tragic accident exposes the stark contrast between the values of Igor, Roger, and Amidou's resilient wife, Assita, adding layers of complexity to an already precarious situation. As Igor navigates the treacherous path of familial duty and moral integrity, "La Promesse" unfolds into a riveting exploration of the human condition, the cost of ambition, and the struggle to preserve one's humanity in a world teetering on the brink of moral decay.

La Promesse is a drama movie featuring Jérémie Renier and directed by Jean-Pierre Dardenne.

La Promesse is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy La Promesse on Amazon Video and Apple TV.