Movie spotlight
A Secret
In 1953, a sensitive French boy finds out from a neighbor that his family's Jewish. François Grimbert becomes a physician, and gradually peels the layers of his buried family history which resulted in his difficult upbringing, raised as Catholic by his "Aryan" appearing parents. His athletic father labored to stamp out stereotypical Jewish characteristics he perceived in his son, to keep the family's many secrets, as most relatives fought in World War II, and later were hauled off to labor and death camps by the Gestapo.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1942 Paris, a young boy named Simon learns from his father that he must hide from the Nazis. His father, a communist resistance fighter, enlists the help of a family friend, Tania, to spirit Simon away to the countryside. Simon must confront his identity, the loss of his family, and the realities of war as he navigates this dangerous period.
Critical Reception
Claude Miller's 'A Secret' is a powerful and poignant drama that delves into the harrowing experiences of a young boy during the Holocaust. The film was widely praised for its sensitive direction, strong performances, and unflinching look at the impact of war on innocence. It resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and historical significance.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotional resonance and handling of a difficult subject matter.
Commended for strong performances, particularly from the young lead.
Noted for its atmospheric portrayal of wartime France.
Google audience: N/A
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Film and Best Adapted Screenplay at the César Awards.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the autobiographical novel 'Le Grand Monde' by Philippe Grimbert, which recounts his own childhood experiences during the Nazi occupation of France.
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