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Historical accuracy of A Confession

Poster

Characters

Historic

Story

Largely historic

Setting

Historic

Historical accuracy of: A Confession

Characters

Historic

Story

Largely historic

Setting

Historic
Poster

Characters

Partly historic

Émile Fabre

Accused priest

While the film is inspired by a real case, the character of Émile Fabre is a fictionalized representation of the accused priest.

Not historic

François Derville

Lawyer defending Fabre

François Derville is a fictional character.

Not historic

Judge Racine

Investigating judge

Judge Racine is a fictional character.

Partly historic

Martine

Victim's mother

The character of Martine is a representation of the victims' families, and their search for answers and justice. The movie takes some liberties in the portrayal of her character.

Story

True

Arthur's confession to the murder.

Arthur did confess to the murder of Patricia, although later recanted.

Partly true

Extent of investigation pressure.

While pressure existed, the film may exaggerate certain aspects.

Probably true

Arthur's mental state fragility.

The film's portrayal aligns with reports of Arthur's vulnerability.

Good depiction

Interrogation techniques used.

The film accurately represents some interrogation methods of the time.

Average depiction

Legal processes followed.

The film simplifies some legal complexities for narrative purposes.

Nobody knows

Arthur's true motivation.

Despite his confession, Arthur's exact motives remain uncertain.

Setting

Unfortunate omission

Wider social context.

The film could have explored the social and political climate surrounding the case more thoroughly.