"You terrify me..." Greenwich Entertainment has unveiled the US trailer for "Bonjour Tristesse," an enchanting yet edge-of-your-seat indie romantic thriller, adapted from the evocative novella of the same name. This French gem made its cinematic debut at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2024, captivating audiences before going on to screen at esteemed festivals such as AFI Fest, Vancouver International Film Festival, Sudbury International Film Festival, and Zurich Film Festival.
Set against the idyllic backdrop of a summer villa in the sun-drenched south of France, 18-year-old Cécile (Lily McInerny) finds herself lost in a world of ease and languid romance with her widowed father Raymond (Claes Bang) and her newfound love interest. Their bond is a tapestry of seamless compatibility, weaving together a narrative of carefree days and lazy afternoons. However, the serene facade shatters with the arrival of Anne (Chloë Sevigny), a mysterious figure from her late mother's past.
Directed by the talented Canadian writer-filmmaker Durga Chew-Bose in her feature directorial debut, "Bonjour Tristesse" masterfully translates Françoise Sagan's unforgettable coming-of-age novel into a visually stunning film that delves into the intricate dynamics between women and their profound impact on each other's lives. Joining Sevigny, Bang, and McInerny are a stellar cast including Naïlia Harzoune, Aliocha Schneider, Nathalie Richard, and more, each bringing their unique flair to the narrative.
While the film's heart beats with French cinema, it transcends linguistic barriers with a dialogue that predominantly flows in English, interwoven with flecks of French dialogue that add an authentic touch. As Cécile grapples with the unsettling presence of Anne, her once tranquil world is thrown into disarray. Desperate to reclaim her sense of control, Cécile hatches a devious plan to expel Anne from their lives, with consequences that ripple far beyond her youthful comprehension.
Produced by Babe Nation Films, Lindsay Tapscott, Katie Bird Nolan, and Elevation Pictures, "Bonjour Tristesse" initially enthralled audiences at TIFF 2024 and continued to make waves at AFI Fest. Greenwich Entertainment will release Chew-Bose's captivating film in select US theaters starting May 2nd, 2025. Will it live up to its promise of being yet another spellbinding psychological thriller? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: "Bonjour Tristesse" promises a cinematic journey that is as enchanting as it is unsettling.
