Grief manifests in many ways, and in Poison, Désirée Nosbusch’s striking directorial debut, it becomes an unrelenting force that shapes the lives of those left behind. Adapted from Lot Vekemans’ acclaimed play Gif, the film presents a searing exploration of loss through the story of Edith (Trine Dyrholm) and Lucas (Tim Roth), a once-married couple who reunite under painful circumstances.
Years after their separation, the two find themselves at a cemetery, forced to confront their shared tragedy—the death of their child. Due to soil contamination, their child’s remains must be exhumed and reburied, a grim duty that reopens old wounds. The meeting exposes the divergent ways in which they have processed their grief: while Lucas appears to have moved forward, Edith remains trapped in the past, unable to detach from the sorrow that has come to define her life.
Nosbusch’s sensitive direction ensures that Poison never veers into melodrama; instead, it delivers an intimate and nuanced portrait of mourning. Dyrholm and Roth’s performances add depth to the narrative, making every moment resonate with authenticity. Their pain is palpable, their interactions laden with unspoken history and unresolved emotions.
The film does not offer easy answers—there is no definitive way to grieve, and Poison embraces this uncertainty. Instead, it serves as a meditation on loss and its enduring impact, highlighting the fragile paths toward healing. With its quiet intensity and emotional depth, Poison is a deeply affecting drama that lingers long after the credits roll.
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