La Première fois que j'ai eu 20 ans (2004)
Directed by Lorraine Levy

Film Review

Lorraine Levy makes an exemplary directorial debut with this charming and at times intensely poignant portrait of a troubled adolescence, based on a popular novel by Susie Morgenstern. Levy 's assured and stylish direction is surpassed only by a faultless performance from her lead actress, Marilou Berry, who, judging by this film, has a talent (and a future career) at least as prodigious as that of her famous mother, the actress Josiane Balasko.

Marilou Berry may not be a conventional beauty but her charisma and the sincerity she brings to her performance more than make up for that.  In her most convincing role to date (previously, she had made a strong impression in Agnès Jaoui's Comme une image (2004)), she perfectly conveys the stubborn rebellious character and inner torment of a teenage girl who is desperate to be loved and appreciated in a world that sets far too much store by conventions and outward appearances.

Levy's screenplay and direction are of an exceptional calibre, certainly for a first film, and skilfully evoke not just the period the film is set in but also the somewhat brutal male-oriented world as experienced by its sensitive heroine.  This is an engaging and memorable film which tackles some important themes - sexual awakening, coping with rejection, learning to take life as it comes - with insight, depth and a pleasing lightness of touch - and some toe-tapping music that will bring out the jazz enthusiast in anyone.

Film Synopsis

In the 1960s, Hannah Goldman lives in Paris with her Jewish family and is experiencing a painful adolescence.  Less attractive than her two sisters, she is often the butt of cruel jokes at school, but she takes solace in her love of music.  She has a particular talent for playing the double bass and practices frequently in the hope that one day she may be admitted into the school jazz band.  By winning a competition, she manages to fulfil this ambition, but the other members of the band - all boys - are far from enthusiastic about her entry into their tight little clique.  Ignoring the sneers and bullying that is directed at her on a daily basis, Hannah perseveres and does everything she can to gain the admiration of her peers...