Told mostly from the perspective of Steeve — a long-time sufferer of ALS — Joris Cottin’s Expiration is an often saddening examination of the effects of COVID-19 isolation on the dying. Knowing he’s near the end of his life, yet unable to say his goodbyes in person due to visiting and distancing guidelines, Steeve and his girlfriend move into a hotel room as an attempt to feel and act as normal as possible while he awaits his doctor-assisted dignified death. While Steeve’s plight is certainly a worthwhile one to explore, Cottin doesn’t quite reach the level of emotion one might assume would come with this type of story. It is compelling, no doubt, but even at just 21 minutes, it often feels disjointed and somewhat aimless. However, it remains worth a look, especially for those who’ve lost someone to ALS, or for those who were not able to attend memorials or say goodbye to loved ones due to COVID restrictions.
Expiration was screened as part of our coverage of the 25th Annual Full Frame Documentary Film Festival.
Originally published by ASHEVILLE MOVIES.
James is a writer, record collector, wrestling nerd, and tabletop gamer living with his family in Asheville, North Carolina. He is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association, the North Carolina Film Critics Association, and contributes to The Daily Orca, Razorcake Magazine, Mountain Xpress, and Asheville Movies.