Synopsis
An orthodox Jewish teen living with her family in France attempts to balance her religious upbringing with her increasingly complex view of the outside world.
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Cast
- Fanny ValetteLaura
- Elsa ZylbersteinMathilde
- Bruno TodeschiniAriel
- Hédi Tillette de Clermont-TonnerreDjamel
- Sonia TaharThe Mother
- Michaël CohenEric
- Aurore ClémentWoman at Mikva
- François MarthouretThe Philosophy Professor
- Salah TeskoukDjamel's Uncle
- Saïda BekkoucheDjamel's Aunt
Recommendations
- 88
TV Guide Magazine
Beautifully played by Valette and Zylberstein, and directed with amazing grace by Albou, this touching film offers a respectful, fascinating look at a community that's ignored as often as it's misunderstood. - 80
Los Angeles Times
Philosophy and religion become entangled with love and sex in Karin Albou's intelligent, sensual drama. - 75
New York Post
Albou's chosen a touchy subject, which she treats sensitively. Her mature script is complemented by heartfelt turns by Fanny Valette as Laura and Elsa Zylberstein as Mathilde. - 75
Chicago Tribune
The film, both light-hearted and serious, suggests that freedom comes more easily within restrictions--and that's true of Albou's approach as well. - 70
L.A. Weekly
Absorbing tale of coming of age in a multi-ethnic Paris suburb. - 60
Variety
In what is arguably her best performance since "Van Gogh," Zylberstein brings Mathilde to life with grace and fervor. - 60
The New York Times
For the first full hour, as we're guided inside privacies of culture and consciousness, Ms. Albou sustains her rich and gently intoxicating mode of storytelling, a feat all the more admirable in light of the overly schematic script. - 60
The Hollywood Reporter
Stylish and well-observed while ultimately not adding up to very much.
