Days of Happiness

Emma, a talented conductor and rising star on the Montreal stage, has a complicated relationship with her father and agent Patrick, who has kept her under his thumb in his own unique way since she was a child. The chance to land an important position with a renowned orchestra makes things even more exciting for Emma. She must face her true feelings and make decisions, both for her music and for herself, if she wants to master her career and her relationship with Naëlle, a recently separated cellist and mother of a young boy. DAYS OF HAPPINESS accompanies Emma on her inner journey as a young woman who is rethinking her career and her feelings. Stirring chapters of her story unfold in breathless suspense: from the orchestra podium to intimate encounters with her partner Naëlle to tender moments with Naëlle's son Jad. The film powerfully addresses themes such as toxic parental relationships, queer romantic love, emotional self-determination, and the price one pays for professional success. With captivating imagery, authentic ensemble acting, and a concrete piano theme, DAYS OF HAPPINESS is a powerful character film interwoven with sound. The world premiere took place at the Toronto International Film Festival, followed by presentations at BFI Flare and the Göteborg Film Festival—a liberating commentary on self-determination, parental conflict, and the inner quest for harmony.