Today's Youth in Film

Some of the biggest recent successes of French cinema are portraits of today's youth. This leads me to today's blog post about coming of age films and how we can learn about today's youth and therefore tomorrow's society through film. Film doesn't just provide an opportunity to connect with our emotions and learn through characters' experiences, but also to flag changes in our society and reflect on them.
Discover our selection in trailers!

HIGH SCHOOL FRIENDSHIPS

One of our most recent acquisitions is Mélanie Laurent's "Breathe" ("Respire"). The actress-turned-director has gained increased visibility, including with her recent documentary about ecological initiatives, "Demain" (not yet released here).

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A GROUP OF FRIENDS IN THE FRENCH SUBURBS

For a portrait of youth growing up in "la banlieue", look no further that Céline Sciamma's "Girlhood" ("Bande de filles").



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A SENSUAL PORTRAIT OF A YOUNG PASSION

You might have heard a lot about Abdellatif Kechiche's provocative, sensual and raw filming of a love story between two young women, "Blue is the warmest color" ("La Vie d’Adèle", an adaptation from a graphic novel entitled "Le bleu est une couleur chaude"). But have you seen it? See below for an avant-goût. A gorgeous and steamy portrait of a young love.



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PROSTITUTION

Another powerful film which will in its case raise questions about exposure to porn and today's youth vision of sexuality is in François Ozon's recent film "Young and Beautiful" ("Jeune et Jolie", a nod maybe to the title of a girl's magazine popular in the 90's). Food for thought!

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ON A LIGHTER NOTE

Looking for a lighter, more family-friendly option to watch with your teens? "Le journal d'Aurélie Laflamme", an adaptation from a québecois young adult novel, could be for you!



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Find these films and more on display this week at the circulation desk!