does push-ups, is it because of his back condition? Or to release his anger?
I thought it was to release all the anger stored in him... having to see this kid there and all, but I read somewhere it was because of his back condition..
I think that, like so much in this film, the sit-ups can be read in several ways. He is taking care of his back problems, and he is releasing his anger at the situation with the kid. We could also say that he is exacerbating his anger, as a way of coming to terms with the situation. And I think the sit-ups are also a part of Olivier trying to maintain his routine and his focus (on the everyday) so that he doesn't break down. Watch, for example, how he does his washing-up when Magali comes to visit. There is an orderliness to his wiping of the plastic lunch box that contrasts with the inner turmoil he is feeling.
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