The Wonderers

Actress Joséphine Japy makes her directorial debut with an incredibly tender, vivid, and autobiographical portrait of a warm family from Nice living on the brink of collapse.

The Roussier family’s existence revolves around their daughter Bertille, who has a severe disability without a diagnosis. She moves wordlessly between joy and violent outbursts, and around her the rest of the family tries to live their lives in a constant state of alert, fearing the inevitable end. Seventeen-year-old Marion’s coming of age is given no room, and the parents’ relationship is cracking at the seams—just like their friendships. Then hope is sparked by the prospect of a diagnosis and brighter horizons. Japy’s debut is a vibrant love letter to life and everyday existence, imbued with visually poetic images of Nice.

• Camilla Larsson