Cultural heritage, family history and loyalty, and the demands of independence are the minutes that make up Summer Hours, and if in the right mood Assayas’ film is a pleasant way to pass the time.

Binoche, Charles Berling and Jeremier Renier are three siblings charged with handling their dead mother’s large country house and a lifetime’s collection of important artwork.

Berling’s nostalgic desire to hold onto their mother’s property (and memory) is not matched by Binoche and Renier, whose emigrant lives leave them with no desire to be anchored to France.

Assayas regulars may be thrown by the relaxed pace, and when the film fades out on a final teenage party in the old house the lasting impression will not leave anyone closer to the meaning of life.

But, kudos to the measured performances and script for resisting award-baiting histrionics, and if Summer Hours does not demand to be seen, its well-observed moments are unexpectedly memorable.

Rob Daniel