Beautifully animated, scored and written, Barras’ little movie has a big heart. C’est fantastique.
The only downside to this charming and disarmingly thought-provoking gem is that it lasts a mere 66 minutes. Few would complain if a sequel came along.
This is a film that should appeal both to adults and to older children. (Younger ones will surely find some of its themes upsetting.)
A superlative family film, and one that dares to be different.
It is funny but conveys important sentiments about trauma, survival, the kindness of strangers and our shifting sense of what a loving family can be. Highly recommended.
Claude Barras’s Oscar-nominated debut, a lovely stop-motion animation set in a French orphanage, is expressive, subtle and beguiling.
A young boy is sent to a children’s home in a frank and affecting animation about abused youngsters finding strength through solidarity.
Claude Barras’ idiosyncratic portrayal of both the anxieties and joys of childhood is never condescending to its young audience, while being filled with sensitivity, wit and fortitude in the face of adversity.
How I wrote My Life as a Courgette, by Celine Sciamma
Edinburgh Filmhouse, Edinburgh from Monday July 3, 2017, until Thursday July 6, 2017. More info: www.filmhousecinema.com
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow on Tuesday July 11, 2017. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/
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