Petite Maman (2022), Directed by Cecile Sciamma

Eight-year-old Nelly and her parents are clearing out her grandma’s house after her recent death. Half way through the task Nelly’s mother, Marion, suddenly leaves without explanation. Playing in the woods, Nelly meets another girl her age and the two only children bond. This slow and thoughtful film is shot totally from Nelly’s point of view. Her joys, fears and sorrows drive the narrative in a tender examination of grief, goodbyes and parent-child relationships. Time travel? Flights of imagination? We are never quite sure and it really doesn’t matter. The performance of Josephine Sanz as Nelly is remarkable and the casting of her twin, Gabrielle, as her new friend is very clever. The many long, slow, lingering shots verge on tedium but set a mood and at 73 minutes this heartfelt and emotional film does not outstay its welcome.