nullThe problem is that it’s pretty much the same as the previously released French trailer, last year, before the film was picked up by Strand Releasing, with Strand’s logo dropped in. I was hoping for something entirely fresh. 

Nevertheless, I’m publishing it, if only because some of you probably didn’t see last year’s trailer, and as a reminder that the film was picked up for USA distribution by Strand Releasing, and will be released in theaters – likely a very limited release – at the end of this month, January 30, 2015.

Of note, Karidja Touré and Assa Sylla – stars of one of the most buzzed about films of the last year, directed French filmmaker Céline Sciamma – were selected by the French Academy to be honored with its Révélations des César (essentially a breakthrough award for newcomers; or performers to watch). The César, of course, is the French equivalent of the Oscars here in the USA, so this is a top honor for both of them.

"Girlhood" follows Marieme, a high schooler who feels oppressed by her family environment, dead-end future prospects, and the rowdy boys in her neighborhood, whose life gets a much-desired lift when she meets a group of 3 free-spirited girls. She changes her name, her dress code, and quits school to be accepted by her new friends, hoping that becoming a part of their clique will provide her with the escape she’s long wanted.

The film, which made its world premiere as a 2014 Directors’ Fortnight selection – a Cannes sidebar which is distinguished by its independent-mindedness, and its non-competitive nature, striving to be eclectic and receptive to unlikely forms of cinematic expression – was eventually picked up by Strand Releasing for USA distribution.

Both Zeba and Wendy reviewed the film (at TIFF 2014 and LFF 2014 respectively), and both praised it! Read their thoughts here and here.

It’ll premiere on January 30, 2015, starting in New York.

Trailer below:

Blavity EntertainmentCéline SciammaShadow and Act