36 Fillette

Director: Catherine Breillat

1988 / 88min / DCP

“One of Breillat’s earlier films, 36 Fillette is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of a young girl’s desire without prudishness nor gratuitous violence. The film follows 14-year-old Lili, played by the sensationally good Delphine Zentout, on her quest to understand her sexuality. On a camping holiday with her family, Lili finds herself in the company of an aging playboy, Maurice. As their relationship develops, Lili discovers her own power over men, but also her fierce independence of spirit and her unwillingness to compromise. A master at tackling taboo subjects, Breillat brings her signature refreshing and unromantic perspective, with long, unflinching takes that capture the thrills and fears of a teenage girl’s awakening.”—Adeline Monzier

“When I started writing about films, French cinema was dominated by a joyful generation of bold filmmakers. I am thinking of Danièle Dubroux, Christine Laurent, Brigitte Roüan, Nicole Garcia, Jeanne Labrune, Laurence Ferrereira Barbosa, and the queen and joker of them all, Catherine Breillat. Her films recall, in a charmingly bold and irresistible way, an infectious smile with ironic dimples.”­—Christophe Honoré Introduced by Christophe Honoré Saturday, March 11