This adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel adopts a low-key approach to sensationalist subject matter. The death of their mother (Sinead Cusack) leaves Jack (Andrew Robertson) and Julie (Charlotte Gainsbourg) orphans, so they bury her in cement in the cellar in order to avoid being taken into care. They assume care of their two younger siblings, but are increasingly consumed by thoughts of sex. Their strange domestic set-up is threatened by the suspicions of Julie's boyfriend, grasping property developer Derek (Jochen Horst), and Jack's increasing attraction to Julie. French actress Gainsbourg makes a striking English language debut, directed by her uncle Andrew Birkin (whose son Ned also has a role). By keeping things in the family, as it were, Birkin has created a drama of startling intimacy. He evokes a dark, disturbing world which lingers in the mind well after the final credits.

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