Bad Apples is a film that dares you to laugh constantly, then gives you a hard long stare. A darkly comedic pressure cooker set in an England school and home, Bad Apples is one of the most uncomfortable watches I’ve ever had and yet, I’m yearning to rewatch this incredible film as soon as I can. This might be TIFF’s hidden gem this year.

At the centre of Bad Apples is Maria, a well-meaning but worn-down teacher whose patience has been worn down over the years. But, when one of her students, Danny, goes overboard, Maria makes a shocking choice that sets the course of the movie. To say my jaw was on the floor is an understatement. Once this choice is made in the movie, you’ll soon realize that all bets are off and nothing is too absurd for this group of people.

What makes Bad Apples work as well as it does is its refusal to frame Maria as either good or bad. The movie understands that the humour and satire works when you see the story from multiple angles. You can’t defend Maria, yes, but you also understand why she does what she does in some sick, twisted way. It’s a fine tightrope to walk that most movies fail at yet, this one does it in an inexplicably incredible way. This is where the humour of the movie comes through and the heart of Bad Apples is.

Tonally, Bad Apples balances drama with satire unlike any movie I can remember in recent years Jonatan Etzler, in his English debut, leans into the discomfort hard, with jaw-dropping moments that make you turn to the person next to you and scream expletives based on what you just saw. The silences stretch for what feels like forever and make you question whether you should be laughing at what you just witnessed or not. This strategy is bold and pays off in dividends.

The performances were key to making this work and 4-time Oscar nom Saoirse Ronan kills it as Maria. Her sudden breakdown in the first act that turns into almost a borderline split personality as the movie goes on is hilarious and flawless. The intensity she brings to this role is what makes it all come together. The supporting cast, mainly Eddie Waller as Danny, is exceptional, bringing that same, unhinged comedic chaos this movie thrives on.

UPDATE: The trailer for Bad Apples is out now!

Bad Apples isn’t an easy watch for many reason, and everyone involved knows this. It’s going to make you squirm, and make you rethink a lot about how far children and adults alike will go to hide something, but the movie makes sure you can never look away from it. This is by far one of the finest films from TIFF this year.