Les Filles ne savent pas nager (2000)
Directed by Anne-Sophie Birot

Film Review

Anne-Sophie Birot made an impressive directorial debut with this strikingly realist portrait of adolescent rebellion and self-discovery.  Whilst the film's pacing is somewhat uneven (the first half being rather slow and incoherent), it is nonetheless a noteworthy film, thanks largely to the convincing performances of its two young lead actresses, Isild Le Besco and Karen Alyx.

The film's depth and power only becomes apparent in its second half, when we see the contrast between Gwen and Lise and then their heart-breakingly tragic reunion.  The raw beauty of the Brittany setting, captured by the excellent cinematography, heightens the film's impact and somehow emphasises the vulnerable and wayward nature of the two girls.  It is a pity that the film relies on an unlikely shock ending to close the narrative when a more probable, naturalistic ending would perhaps have been and more effective.

Film Synopsis

Gwen and Lise are two young teenagers who meet up once a year during their holidays and keep in touch throughout the rest of the year by writing to one another.  Gwen lives in Brittany with her family of fisherfolk who are struggling to make a living.  Lise lives in the city and is presently finding it hard to cope with the recent death of her father.  Lise expects words of comfort from her friend, but Gwen is far too preoccupied with her new boyfriend.  When the girls meet their holiday does not go as planned.  They no longer seem to able to make contact with each other.  It is as if, suddenly, they have become two completely different people...