Langue étrangère (2024)

Review Team

4/5

Langue étrangère is a thoughtful exploration of the struggles of adolescence, directed by Claire Burger. The film follows Fanny, a quiet teenager, as she embarks on a language exchange in Germany, where she meets her pen pal Lena. The narrative artfully delves into the complexities of identity and t ... Show more >> Langue étrangère is a thoughtful exploration of the struggles of adolescence, directed by Claire Burger. The film follows Fanny, a quiet teenager, as she embarks on a language exchange in Germany, where she meets her pen pal Lena. The narrative artfully delves into the complexities of identity and the pressure to conform, particularly as Fanny spins a web of lies to impress Lena. The performances are nuanced, particularly from the lead, who captures Fanny's inner turmoil with authenticity. The cinematography beautifully contrasts the vibrant city of Leipzig with Fanny's internal struggles, enhancing the film's emotional depth. Burger’s direction is both sensitive and insightful, allowing the audience to empathise with the characters' journeys. Overall, Langue étrangère is a compelling watch for anyone who appreciates character-driven storytelling. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Langue étrangère tells the story of Fanny, a shy girl who gets caught up in a lie to impress her new friend Lena during a language exchange in Germany. While the premise is intriguing, the execution sometimes falters. The film has its heart in the right place, touching on themes of friendship and se ... Show more >> Langue étrangère tells the story of Fanny, a shy girl who gets caught up in a lie to impress her new friend Lena during a language exchange in Germany. While the premise is intriguing, the execution sometimes falters. The film has its heart in the right place, touching on themes of friendship and self-discovery, but it occasionally feels a bit slow. The performances are solid, with the chemistry between the leads bringing some warmth to the narrative. However, there are moments where the pacing drags, making it hard to stay fully engaged. It’s not a bad film by any means, but it could have benefited from tighter editing and a more dynamic storyline. If you're looking for a gentle coming-of-age story, Langue étrangère might still resonate with you. Show less