The Barbarian Invasions 2003
"A comedy about sex, friendship, and all other things that invade our lives."
Denys Arcand's sharp-witted sequel to *The Decline of the American Empire* revisits the Montreal intellectual crowd with a mix of dark humor and emotional depth.
Director: Denys Arcand
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Barbarian Invasions (2003) about?
The film follows Rémy, a dying professor whose estranged son steps in to secure his care in Montreal's overburdened healthcare system. As old friends and ex-lovers reunite, the story weaves together humor, heartache, and the messy realities of aging and relationships.
Who directed The Barbarian Invasions?
Denys Arcand, the acclaimed director behind *The Decline of the American Empire*, crafted this sequel with his signature blend of wit and social commentary.
Who stars in The Barbarian Invasions?
The ensemble cast includes Rémy Girard as the professor, Stéphane Rousseau as his estranged son, and Marie-Josée Croze, Dorothée Berryman, and Louise Portal as key figures in Remy's life.
Is The Barbarian Invasions (2003) worth watching?
With its sharp dialogue and emotional resonance, the film delivers a rewarding experience for fans of character-driven dramas. While not a crowd-pleaser, its blend of comedy and tragedy makes it a standout in Arcand's filmography.
How long is The Barbarian Invasions?
The film runs for 99 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Barbarian Invasions (2003) — A darkly comic look at mortality and family
Denys Arcand's sharp-witted sequel to *The Decline of the American Empire* revisits the Montreal intellectual crowd with a mix of dark humor and emotional depth. When Rémy Girard's middle-aged college professor learns he's dying of liver cancer, his estranged son, a high-powered London businessman played by Stéphane Rousseau, pulls every string imaginable to secure the best care for his father—even if it means bending the rules of Canada's healthcare system. As Remy's ex-wife, old friends, and former lovers reconvene, the film blends biting satire with tender moments, exploring how life's most invasive forces—illness, love, and mortality—reshape relationships.
The Barbarian Invasions (2003) balances comedy and drama with Arcand's signature insight, turning a personal tragedy into a bittersweet meditation on friendship and second chances.