PONETTE

Written and directed by Jacques Doillon

Victoire Thivisol
Delphine Schiltz
Matiaz Bureau Caton

Premiere date: September 10, 1996 (Toronto Film Festival)

Little Ponette is riding in a car with her mother when they're involved in a serious accident; Ponette survives, but her mother does not. Her father initially reacts with anger over his late wife's careless driving, while her Aunt Claire tries to comfort the child by telling her about Jesus and the resurrection. However, none of this does much to reassure Ponette or clarify her confusion about the practical realities and spiritual dilemma posed by death. In time, Ponette and her cousins Matiaz and Delphine are sent off to boarding school, where they have to resolve their confusion and loss on their own.

Venice Film Festival
FIPRESCI Prize
Best Actress - Victoire Thivisol