[1] The film is based on documents compiled by French philosopher, Michel Foucault.

In a Normandy village in 1835, a young man, Pierre Rivière, murdered his mother, sister and brother before fleeing to the countryside.

Using a cast of local villagers, the film uses detailed and historically accurate re-enactments to create an intense, disturbing atmosphere.

The crime and resultant trial is recounted from varied perspectives, including Pierre's confession.

The result is a rich, complex narrative that interrogates truth and history.