In an era of deep political divisions, acclaimed Montreal director Léa Pool's latest film, 'On Sera Heureux' (We Will Be Happy), offers a refreshing perspective that prioritizes human connection over ideological battles. The film, which translates to "We Will Be Happy," follows the unlikely relationship between a left-wing journalist and a conservative politician, yet Pool insists the heart of the story beats to the rhythm of love, not politics.
A Story of Connection, Not Conflict
Pool, whose distinguished career spans decades in Canadian cinema, emphasizes that the political backgrounds of her characters serve merely as a backdrop for a more universal exploration. "It's not a political film," she states unequivocally. "It's a film about love, about the possibility of connection between two people who come from completely different worlds."
The director reveals that her inspiration came from observing the increasing polarization in society and wondering what might happen when people step outside their ideological echo chambers. "I wanted to explore what happens when we actually listen to someone we're supposed to disagree with," Pool explains. "The politics are just the setting; the real story is what happens when two human beings truly see each other."
Character-Driven Narrative
Focusing on the emotional journey of her characters allows the film to transcend political commentary and become something more profound. Pool deliberately avoids taking sides or making political statements, instead crafting a nuanced portrait of two individuals navigating their differences.
"The challenge was to create characters who are fully realized, not political caricatures," says Pool. "They have their convictions, yes, but they also have vulnerabilities, dreams, and the capacity to change. That's what makes their connection possible."
Universal Themes in Quebec Cinema
While rooted in Quebec's specific cultural landscape, 'On Sera Heureux' explores themes with global resonance. Pool's approach demonstrates how regional stories can speak to universal human experiences, particularly in today's divided world.
The film represents a continuation of Pool's signature style—intimate, character-focused, and emotionally authentic. Rather than providing political answers, she poses fundamental questions about understanding, empathy, and the transformative power of human relationships.
'On Sera Heureux' stands as a testament to cinema's ability to bridge divides and remind audiences of our shared humanity, proving that sometimes the most radical act is simply to understand someone different from ourselves.
