The film Becoming a Father is a story with an important message and educational value. It tells the story of how a self-centered individual is transformed into a loving father thanks to a child with Down syndrome. The story reflects the real joys and struggles of many families whom God blesses with a child with a disability.

Cécile and Franck are looking forward to the arrival of their first child. Shortly after the birth, they discover that their baby has Down syndrome. Cécile quickly overcomes her initial shock and tries to love her daughter with all her heart. Franck cannot come to terms with the fact that they have a child with a disability and is ashamed of his daughter.

Franck avoids caring for his daughter and convinces himself that it is enough that he works and provides financially for his family. Cécile soon grows weary of having the entire burden of caring for their baby fall on her shoulders. Gradually, they begin to drift apart.

The attractive Cécile begins to be courted by the physical therapist she visits with her daughter for exercises. When Franck finds out, he becomes more aware of his failures in family life and reevaluates how he has behaved so far. Although Cécile once rashly accepts the physical therapist’s invitation for a private boat ride, when he tries to take things further, she decides to remain faithful to her husband.

When Franck agrees with Cécile to take on a large part of the responsibility for caring for their daughter, he begins to learn to love her with unconditional love. He discovers what a wonderful creature their daughter is and learns not to be ashamed of her. He begins to understand that it is not disability that stands in the way of a joyful life, but a lack of love.

A beautiful thought at the end: “I’m glad we didn’t know.” It carries great significance, because children—including those with disabilities—should not be killed, but loved.

Drama

France, 2020, 90 min

Crew: Stéphanie Pillonca;

Music: Martin Balsan;

Cast: Ary Abittan, Julie De Bona, Youssef Hajdi, Julie-Anne Roth, Annie Grégorio, Guillaume Duhesme, Yona Kervern, Marie Vincent, Mélanie Guth, Déborah Lukumuena;

Parents Guide

About 2 instances of a married couple hugging and kissing. 1 instance of a kiss between two young people with Down syndrome who are in love. 1 instance of Cécile being hugged and 1 instance of a physical therapist attempting to kiss Cécile. Several instances of a woman wearing shorts, a short skirt, an off-the-shoulder dress, or tight-fitting pants. A woman with Down syndrome dancing in a tank top without a bra.

A few instances of pecking kisses.

Several instances of judo matches, a martial art in which Franck is a coach. A father considering suing the hospital for failing to recommend a high-risk amniocentesis that could have prevented a miscarriage. One instance of a proposal for the couple to separate. A woman planning to work on Sunday. Cécile accepts an invitation to go on a boat ride with only the physical therapist.

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