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Poster for Ponette

Ponette

Seen it?

1996 | 97 min | Drama

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

Critics loved it (92% on Rotten Tomatoes), despite a box office flop. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who loves a strong drama.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 37 min.
What might put you off
It's in French, so expect subtitles (or a dub).

After losing her mother in a car accident that leaves her with a broken arm, 4-year-old Ponette struggles with anguish and fear. Left by her father with a caring aunt and her children, Ponette grieves, secretly hoping her mother will somehow come back. Confused by the religious explanations provided by adults, and challenged by the cruel taunts of a few children at school, little Ponette must make her way through her emotional turmoil.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsVery strong

    92% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsSolid

    Won 1 Venice award: Venice Film Festival: Volpi Cup for Best Actress. Plus 8 other awards.

  • Box office & staying powerWeak

    $4 million worldwide

  • Buzz & cultural impactSolid

    About 45K people sought it out in the past year, and interest is climbing

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Jacques Doillon

  • Victoire ThivisolPonette
  • Matiaz Bureau CatonMatiaz
  • Delphine SchiltzDelphine
  • Léopoldine SerreAda
  • Luckie RoyerLuce
  • Carla IbledCarla
  • Antoine du MerleAntoine
  • Marie TrintignantLa Mère
  • Claire NeboutLa Tante
  • Aurélie VérillonAurélie