Star
rating - 8/10
Now out on DVD is a very touching French film about
a ten year old boy whose father has abandoned him to a children's' home. Cyril
wants desperately to believe that his father still wants him, despite all the
evidence to the contrary. He forms a relationship with a hairdresser, who he
persuades to act as his foster parent at weekends.
Samantha shows unswerving dedication to the child,
in the face of some pretty rough treatment. But what stands out here is the achingly
sad story of Cyril, whose pain as a result of his parental neglect and lack of
love is visceral. He shows animal strength and stubbornness, especially when
his beloved bike is stolen by local youths, yet his emotional frailty is deeply
moving.
The acting is superb, especially from Thomas Doret
playing Cyril, and Cécile de France as
Samantha is also very convincing in her supportive role. This film from
directors Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc Dardenne is certainly not an easy watch,
but it is truthful and revealing about the failings and weaknesses of humans,
and is ultimately redemptive in its message.
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