Profession du père tells the story of Émile, a young boy growing up in the 1960s with his highly unstable and delusional father, André. André claims to have been a secret agent, a paratrooper, a pastor, and even an advisor to General de Gaulle — identities that constantly shift and blur the line between fantasy and reality.

Caught in his father’s lies and manipulation, Émile is drawn into dangerous “missions” that André invents, including spying on supposed enemies of the nation. His mother remains passive, unable or unwilling to confront her husband’s psychological abuse.

As Émile grows older, he gradually realizes that his father's world is built on paranoia and grandiose illusions. The film portrays his painful journey toward understanding, breaking free from his father’s influence, and reclaiming his own life.

Adapted from Sorj Chalandon’s autobiographical novel, the film explores childhood trauma, emotional manipulation, and the long-lasting scars of living with a mentally unstable parent.

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director: Jean-Pierre Améris

screenplay : Jean-Pierre Améris et Murielle Magellan

after the novel by Sorj Chalandon (2015)

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Music: Quentin Sirjacq

string quartet, piano, mandolin and percussions: Sébastien Surel, Jean Jacques Rojer, Arnaus Lassus

recorded and mixed by Ludovic Palabaud

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Production : Olivier Delbosc

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Sociétés de production : Curiosa Films ; France 3 Cinéma, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Cinéma, Belga Productions (coproduction)

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music executive production: Mymelody - Rebecca Delannet

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2020