Paul

Film program, CA 2025, 87 min., engl./fr.OV. + engl. UT

By: Denis Coté

“Cleaning to Save My Life” is the Instagram account of Paul, who attempts to cope with his depression and social anxiety by cleaning the apartments of dominant women. In return for his meticulous work, he receives S/M sessions, care, and attention. Through the daily reels he shares, Paul documents his gradual transformation – from a listless, self-doubting young man into someone who faces the world with growing openness and courage. Denis Côté offers a tender, formally restrained and nonjudgmental portrait of a person learning to take charge of his life and confront his fears.

Kristian Petersen