Movie spotlight
Adolescence is a 1966 French short documentary film directed by Marin Karmitz, about the teenage students of a famed ballet teacher. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short.
A young boy named Pascal is growing up in a conservative French household in the 1950s. As he navigates the complexities of adolescence, he grapples with his burgeoning sexuality and a growing sense of rebellion against societal norms. His journey is marked by emotional turmoil, first love, and the search for identity in a world that seems determined to suppress his individuality.
Adolescence received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often highlighting its sensitive portrayal of a young boy's sexual awakening and the subtle depiction of societal pressures. While some found its pacing slow, many praised its atmospheric direction and the authentic performances of its young cast. It was particularly noted for its frankness for the era.
Praised for its nuanced exploration of teenage sexuality and coming-of-age themes.
Recognized for its sensitive direction and authentic portrayal of the period.
Some found the narrative to be somewhat understated and slow-moving.
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The film was controversial upon its release due to its candid depiction of adolescent sexuality, which was quite daring for French cinema in the mid-1960s.
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Maybe it was the dimly lit style of photography or perhaps the elderly, bescarfed, ballet coach who could readily have been called “Madame Suzatska”, but I thought that this had the look of a communist-era Eastern European documentary to it...