The Children 1985
Marguerite Duras' *The Children* (1985) is a darkly whimsical French comedy that explores childhood through the surreal lens of Ernesto, a seven-year-old boy trapped in the body of an adult.
Director: Marguerite Duras
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Children (1985) about?
The film follows Ernesto, a seven-year-old boy with the body of an adult, who rebels against school after realizing the lessons don't match his knowledge. His defiance becomes a playful yet profound exploration of childhood, maturity, and the absurdity of grown-up expectations.
Who directed The Children?
French New Wave auteur Marguerite Duras directed *The Children* (1985). Known for her avant-garde storytelling, Duras crafts a visually and thematically rich narrative that challenges conventional perceptions of age and learning.
Who stars in The Children?
The film stars Axel Bogousslavsky as Ernesto, with Daniel Gélin, Tatiana Moukhine, André Dussollier, and Pierre Arditi rounding out the cast in pivotal roles.
Is The Children (1985) worth watching?
If you enjoy offbeat, thought-provoking comedies that defy norms, *The Children* is worth a watch. Its unique premise and Duras' distinctive direction make it a cult favorite, though its absurdist tone may not appeal to all audiences.
How long is The Children?
The runtime of *The Children* (1985) is 94 minutes.
The Children (1985): A Whimsical Take on Childhood Rebellion — Full Movie Info
Marguerite Duras' *The Children* (1985) is a darkly whimsical French comedy that explores childhood through the surreal lens of Ernesto, a seven-year-old boy trapped in the body of an adult. After his first day at school reveals the vast gap between what he knows and what he's expected to learn, he makes a bold decision: why should he endure lessons about things he already understands? The film blends absurd humor with poignant reflections on innocence, authority, and the absurdity of institutional education. Duras' signature style infuses the story with a dreamlike atmosphere, where logic bends and childhood feels like both a prison and a playground.
With a cast led by Axel Bogousslavsky as the precocious Ernesto, this 94-minute gem stands out for its unconventional take on growing up. The director's distinct voice weaves together themes of rebellion, curiosity, and the friction between youth and societal expectations. It's a film that lingers in the mind, challenging viewers to see childhood not as a phase to outgrow, but as a state of mind worth defending.