Girl

Lara, a 15-year-old trans girl, is determined to become a professional ballerina. She throws herself into rigorous training with the support of her father and a new ballet school. However, her dreams are constantly challenged by the physical demands of ballet, her own insecurities, and the persistent need to reconcile her identity with the expectations of those around her.

Girl received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of a transgender protagonist, its stunning cinematography, and Victor Polster's powerful performance. The film was praised for its empathetic approach, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on the character's internal struggles and aspirations.

• Praised for its empathetic and non-sensationalized portrayal of a transgender teen.
• Victor Polster's performance as Lara was widely lauded as a career-defining role.
• The film's exploration of identity, ambition, and the physical challenges of ballet was commended.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's emotional depth and the compelling performance by the lead actor. Many appreciated the sensitive handling of the transgender narrative and the focus on Lara's journey towards self-discovery and her dreams.

Winner of the Caméra d'Or (Best First Feature Film) and the Queer Palm at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival.

Director Lukas Dhont chose not to cast professional ballet dancers, instead opting for actors who, like the character Lara, were learning and striving to achieve their goals, believing this would add authenticity to the performances.