By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Director: Anne Fontaine
Starring: Agata Buzek | Agata Kulesza | Anna Próchniak | Eliza Rycembel | Joanna Kulig | Katarzyna Dabrowska | Lou de Laâge | Vincent Macaigne
Original language title: Les Innocentes
Country: france, poland
Year: 2016
Running time: 115
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4370784/reference
Beth C. says: “The best films utilize cinematography for aesthetic value and to convey meaningful information about the film’s unexplored plot, themes, and moods. The outdoor scenes in The Innocents are stunning and demonstrate Champetier’s superior skills and perspective. It would appear that the nuns have little distinction amidst the snow-covered ground, the snow-capped trees, as they move through the scenery in their dark habits with their snow-white veils. Yet, the composition of massive trees surrounding the characters, nearly engulfing the individuals, reminds us of the relative insignificance of the human amidst the enduring forest. At that time (WWII) in human history, the overwhelming significance of evil spreading and infecting the world can still be seen as insignificant in comparison to those ancient trees. The cinematography is also completed using a great deal of darkness and shadows within the walls of the convent, allowing light in certain places, very subtle but effective in directing the viewer toward the film’s hidden truths. Together, the remarkable images and ideas contained within make THE INNOCENTS an excellent choice for a Chlotrudis nominee.”