BRUSSELS Felix van Groeningen's "The Misfortunates" will represent Belgium in the race to secure a nomination for the 2010 foreign-language Oscar.
Pic tells the story of 13-year-old Gunther, growing up in the 1980s in a household of drunks, gamblers and womanizers in small-town Belgium. Scenes of epic bad behavior are balanced by deeper thoughts about loyalty to a disgraceful family.
"Misfortunates" is Flemish helmer van Groeningen's third feature, after "Steve + Sky" and "With Friends Like These." It was selected for the Cannes Directors' Fortnight and has just taken its North American bow in Toronto.
Film was produced by Ghent-based shingle Menuet. International sales are handled by MK2.
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