Low-key, but absorbing.

This quiet but chilling tale of an idyllic French village with a murderer lurking in the background is memorably presented: the photography is beautiful, the acting subtle and convincing, and the gradual build-up of suspense holds your attention - NOT quite to the very end, I'm sorry to say, because the final sequences seemed pointless and unnecessary; but almost. The developing relationship between the two main characters, the beautiful, self-possessed but vulnerable teacher and the robust down-to-earth butcher, is subtly and delicately portrayed, and has you wondering from the start how it's going to proceed. And though there is little fast action there are some moments that make you jump: watch for the little girl who thinks she feels a spot of rain, looks up, and then sees that a drop of blood has fallen onto her sandwich.