Embers, the social drama directed by Thomas Kruithof, is airing on Canal+ this Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 9:09 p.m. After its French release on November 5, 2025, the film brings together Virginie Efira, Arieh Worthalter, and Mama Prassinos around a couple worn down by their political activism.
The Embers
Film | 2025
Airs on Canal+ : Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 21:09
Drama | Runtime: 1h42
Directed by Thomas Kruithof | Starring Virginie Efira, Arieh Worthalter, Mama Prassinos
Nationality: France
Karine and Jimmy have lived together for twenty years and are raising their two children. She works in a food-processing plant, while he is trying to grow his small transport business. When the Gilets jaunes movement emerges, Karine sees herself reflected in the collective anger and gradually becomes involved in the mobilization.
Her activism reshapes her daily life and upends the balance of the relationship. Jimmy, more removed from this social struggle, doesn’t share the same take on the situation. Les Braises thus looks at what politics can provoke in a private life, when a collective conviction enters the family sphere.
The appeal of this broadcast lies first in the film’s subject: the Yellow Vests movement, treated not as mere historical backdrop but through its ripple effects on a couple and a family. Thomas Kruithof, who had already depicted the link between local politics and daily life in Les Promesses, extends here his exploration of the tensions between public engagement and personal trajectory.
The film should appeal to viewers drawn to socially conscious stories grounded in recent French current affairs. It won’t be as appealing to those seeking light entertainment or fiction detached from today’s political and social struggles.
The duo of Virginie Efira and Arieh Worthalter sits at the heart of the story. The film hinges on Karine’s gradual transformation, fueled by the momentum of the collective, and on the widening rift with Jimmy, who is more focused on keeping his career afloat and balancing family life.
Co-written by Thomas Kruithof and Jean-Baptiste Delafon, Les Braises draws on a recognisable social backdrop—the roundabouts, protests and political debates that defined France in the late 2010s. The film isn’t limited to the mobilization; it also shows how activism alters everyday actions, couple conversations, and each person’s place within the home.
The official trailer for Les Braises reveals the film’s tone and puts the spotlight on the central couple, Karine and Jimmy.
To go further, also check out our pick of films, series and shows to watch on TV this week, our guide to new releases across all platforms and today’s selection What to watch today on streaming.
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