Spring Blossom

Not only is this film another problematic romantisation of a "lolita story" (adult man falling in love with teenage girl), but it is also painfully boring. The film is relatively short but it drags on nevertheless. There is barely any dialogue, a lot of shots repeat over and over and any action is missing completely. There is weird dance sequence at one point that is neither explained, nor does it further the plot. Just a few minutes later there is another dance scene, this time a slow dance and the camera stays on this moment for several minutes while nothing else happens. Seriously, don't watch this film and save yourself the time.

This movie is a subtle joy to watch. It doesn't go over any boundaries and stays on the line of where the characters are in their lives, and the escapism within their tiny connection. The script is precise and the scenes are never rushed, and always get the point across. The calm Parisian background is nice alongside the great cinematography. The musical choices are a pretty touch, and some moments are different with a welcoming twist. For a first film, I think Suzanne knocked it out of the park. Her acting and delivery was sincere and spot on, same for Arnaud Valois. It was a sweet telling of curious love.

This is such a beautiful movie. I loved everything about it. The ending was just right. The acting, the cinematography, the writing, all very inspirational and so pleasing to take in. There is something to be said for thoughtful conversation and genuine feeling, and I can see the correlation to the movies of Eric Rohmer and "Paris, Texas" as Suzanne said in an interview. Incredible work from such a young and talented source. Please give us more. My favorite scene is probably the short one in the cafe involving a kiss on the neck and the holding of hands. No dialogue. None was needed. Thank you.

Written at the tender age of 15, directed and acted at the age of 19, this is Suzanne Lindon's personal coming-of-age retelling. Where the film excels is its gentle approach to the delicate subject matter that never feels sexualized nor uncomfortable. Lindon's ne plus ultra is a series of several beautifully choreographed, artistic dances with her costar, Arnaud Valois. These alluring scenes feel very much like an implicit allegory that viewers are supposed to interpret.

The downturn is the film's absence of resolving questions about an adolescent's inability to handle complex adult relationships, though it manages to successfully navigate around the clichés of this genre. At a mere 72 minute runtime, the relationship dissolves as fast as it builds.

Ultimately, many viewers will be left feeling insatiable when the credits roll...

Films that deal with the subject of a young girl's romance with an older man can often descend into issues of sexual exploitation, or see it as a result of a troubled family background. It is a relief, therefore, that Suzanne Lindon's seemingly autobiographical take on her own teenage years portrays a happy family, and a gentle, innocent romance. It has the lightness of touch reminiscent of some of Eric Rohmer's coming of age dramas, the only disappointment being that very little is resolved, or even discussed. It's a short, charming film, but one that leaves the viewer feeling vaguely unsatisfied at its conclusion.