(À BRAS LE CORPS)

Switzerland, 1943. When 15-year-old Emma (Lila Gueneau) becomes pregnant following an assault, she must navigate the restrictive social and religious mores of her rural Protestant community, whilst dealing with her own repressed emotions. Choosing a defiant path of self-determination, Emma transforms her trauma into a catalyst for emancipation while confronting the moral hypocrisy of the village and the spectre of World War II around her. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss landscape, Marie-Elsa Sgualdo’s exceptionally moving debut feature boasts a star-making performance from newcomer Gueneau.

Notes by David O’Mahony

Official Competition, Spotlight Section, Venice International Film Festival 2025

Screening as part of IFI French Film Festival 2025.