Acclaimed French Director Céline Sciamma (Portrait of a Lady on Fire) is presenting a surprising and powerful fantastic tale at the 2021 Berlinale. Petite Maman is a must-watch: here’s why.
The 2021 Berlinale is in full swing, offering audiences the chance to enjoy the program of the 71st Berlin International Film Festival in person, from June 9th to 20th, 2021. Among the contenders for the Silver Bear is Céline Sciamma’s latest work, her fifth feature film titled “Petite Maman” (“Little Mom” in English). Following the success of “Portrait of a Lady on Fire,” which received acclaim both in France and internationally, Sciamma now presents an intimate tale from a child’s perspective, infused with elements of fantasy, in a beautifully crafted 72-minute film.
Eight-year-old Nelly is grappling with the recent loss of her beloved grandmother while helping her parents clean out her mother’s childhood home. Exploring the house and surrounding woods where her mother, Marion, once played and built a treehouse, Nelly’s world is suddenly disrupted when her mother unexpectedly departs. It’s during this time that Nelly encounters another girl her age in the woods, constructing a treehouse. Her name is Marion.
Grounded in reality, the film follows Nelly as she navigates through a whirlwind of sorrow, grief, and guilt, with her parents remaining somewhat distant and unable to engage in meaningful conversations. Director Céline Sciamma skillfully immerses the audience in Nelly’s journey, allowing us to experience the ups and downs of her emotional turmoil while slowly uncovering the uncanny connections between the two young girls.
Without giving away any of the plot twists and revelations introduced by Sciamma, it’s fair to say that “Petite Maman” offers a poetic and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
However, it must be admitted that our viewing experience was somewhat marred by the film’s overly simplistic plot and overwritten dialogues, which at times seem to portray the children as miniature adults. The meticulous attention to detail in every frame and line of dialogue, while visually stunning, detracts from the authenticity of the story, leaving little room for genuine emotional connection.
Nevertheless, “Petite Maman” delivers a surprising twist towards the end that reframes the entire narrative, elevating the film into a realm of fantasy and profound meaning. It becomes a poignant reflection on themes such as motherhood, the passage of time, and the bonds between generations.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Céline Sciamma’s masterful storytelling, playing in Berlin on June 15th and 16th, 2021.
If you are here after watching the film, here is a gift for you, the next song you want to hear for the rest of your life: La musique du futur (The music from the future) by Para One, an original composition for Petite Maman, with lyrics written by Director Céline Sciamma herself.
