"Langue étrangère" (English: "Foreign Language") is a 2024 tragicomedy co-written and directed by Claire Burger. The film is a European co-production among France, Germany, and Belgium, and it was selected to compete for the Golden Bear at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, premiering on February 19, 2024.
Plot Summary:
The narrative centers on Fanny, a 17-year-old student from Strasbourg, France, who embarks on a language exchange program to Leipzig, Germany. There, she stays with her pen pal, Lena, who is of the same age and eager to become politically active. Initially shy and reserved, Fanny becomes troubled and, in an attempt to win over Lena, fabricates aspects of her life, eventually becoming entangled in her own deceptions.
Director's Vision:
Claire Burger, known for her focus on the lives of non-bourgeois individuals, continues this exploration in "Langue étrangère." The film delves into cultural differences and the social constructs that shape the lives of her complex protagonists, emphasizing humanity and the nuances of interpersonal relationships.
International Cinephile Society
Short Summary:
"Langue étrangère" is a tragicomedy that follows Fanny, a 17-year-old French student, as she participates in a language exchange in Germany. There, she meets Lena, an aspiring political activist, leading Fanny to navigate cultural differences, personal insecurities, and the complexities of teenage relationships.
Themes:
Cultural Exchange: The film examines the dynamics of a cross-cultural encounter between two teenagers from different countries, highlighting both the challenges and enrichments that come with such exchanges.
Identity and Self-Discovery: Fanny's journey reflects the universal teenage quest for identity, as she navigates her own insecurities and the desire to be accepted.
Political Awakening: Through Lena's activism, the film touches on the political consciousness of youth and their role in societal change.
Key Success Factors:
Authentic Performances: The lead actors, Lilith Grasmug (Fanny) and Josefa Heinsius (Lena), deliver compelling performances that capture the complexities of adolescence and cultural exchange.
Relatable Narrative: The film's focus on universal themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of growing up resonates with a broad audience.
Critical Acclaim: Premiering at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival and competing for the Golden Bear signifies the film's recognition within the international film community.
Awards, and Nominations: 2 wins & 3 nominations
As of January 2025, "Langue étrangère" has been nominated for the Golden Bear at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival.
Critical Reception:
The film has received positive reviews for its delicate handling of complex themes. Slant Magazine praised it as a "tender and surprisingly funny" feature, noting Burger's continued exploration of the lives of the non-bourgeois. Screen Daily highlighted the film as a "largely compelling" coming-of-age story that mixes love, familial angst, and the future of Europe.
Box Office Performance:
France lifetime gross: $199,862 Worldwide lifetime total gross: $216,645
Production Details:
Director: Claire Burger
Screenwriters: Claire Burger, Léa Mysius
Producers: Marie-Ange Luciani
Cast:
Lilith Grasmug as Fanny
Josefa Heinsius as Lena
Nina Hoss as Susanne
Chiara Mastroianni as Antonia
Jalal Altawil as Anthar
Cinematography: Julien Poupard
Editing: Frédéric Baillehaiche, Claire Burger
Music: Rebeka Warrior
Production Companies: France 3 Cinéma, Dharamsala, Scope Pictures
Distribution: Ad Vitam Distribution, Goodfellas, Port au Prince Pictures
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/fr/title/tt31015291/
Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/457357/
About movie: https://goodfellas.film/movie/langue-etrangere/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/fr/film/langue-etrangere (France)
Recommendation:
"Langue étrangère" is recommended for viewers who appreciate nuanced coming-of-age stories that explore cultural exchange, identity, and political awakening. Claire Burger's direction, combined with authentic performances and a relatable narrative,
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