The Adolescent

The film centers on Marie's summer visit to her grandparents near Avignon just before World War II. During this time, she confronts her emerging femininity and becomes infatuated with a young Jewish doctor. However, the doctor's affections lie with Marie's mother, adding emotional layers to the narrative.

The Adolescent was directed by Jeanne Moreau, better known as an acclaimed actress, making this one of her few directorial efforts. The cast features prominent French actors including Simone Signoret, Francis Huster, and Jacques Weber, contributing to the film's gravitas. The screenplay and performances emphasize the nuances of family dynamics and unspoken desires.

Produced through a collaboration of Carthago Coop. Cinematográfica, Südwestfunk, and Janus Filmproduktion GmbH, the film reflects a European co-production typical of the period. Its runtime of 90 minutes keeps the story focused and intimate. The historical context of 1939 adds a subtle tension to the coming-of-age themes.

Collectors will find The Adolescent available on VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray formats. Each physical edition allows for appreciation of the film's period detail and performances. The film's status as a woman's directorial work from the late 1970s also makes it an interesting piece for those exploring female filmmakers in European cinema history.