Within moments of meeting Bruno (a Belmondo-ish Jérémie Renier), it's clear he, not the baby he just had with his 18-year-old girlfriend, Sonia (Déborah François), is the title character in "L'Enfant," which took the top prize at Cannes last year. Co-directed by brothers Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, the movie showcases their trademark predilection for dingy urban settings and minimalist emotions. But it sneaks up on you, ultimately having more impact than you might've expected from the slow going and distressed circumstances. Read the full review
In a Belgian steel town, Bruno and his 18-year-old girlfriend live off her unemployment benefits and his panhandling and petty thefts. Their lives change forever when she gives birth to their child. Desperate for money and unable to face his parental responsibilities, Bruno sells the baby to a black market connection.
Director: Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne
Starring: Jérémie Renier, Déborah François, Olivier Gourmet, Fabrizio Rongione, Jeremie Segard
Run time: 95 minutes
Release date: March 24, 2006
Rating: Not rated.
Language: In French with English subtitles.
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The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: B
"... works on you slowly, subtly."
Austin American-Statesman: 4 of 5 stars
"With no music, sparse dialogue and naturalistic acting, L'Enfant will test the patience of many viewers. But ... viewers may be surprised how much they care."
The Palm Beach Post: C+
"... a simple, emotionally raw story, which many will find hard to swallow."
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