Cinema Society

LA PETITE CHAMBRE (THE SMALL ROOM)

Average
Rating

4.1

Tuesday, January 04, 2011, Landmark La Jolla Village Cinemas

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4

5:00PM or 7:30pm (You Choose!)

Preview of the 2011 Palm Springs International Film Festival

Academy Award® Submission, Best Foreign Language Film, Switzerland

LA PETITE CHAMBRE (THE SMALL ROOM)

Discussion will follow screenings

Landmark La Jolla Village Cinemas

Preview of the 2011 Palm Springs International Film Festival

Academy Award® Submission, Switzerland

LA PETITE CHAMBRE (THE SMALL ROOM)

This circle of life drama-- Switzerland’s entry to the Best Foreign Language Film Academy Award-- is about a bereaved mother and a man she works for as a nurse is set in Lausanne.

“This is a story of the heart. Edmonds heart is no longer strong. But it still beats with an independence which fights against the very idea of entering a retirement home, while at the same time refusing help from Rose, his home care nurse. Nonetheless she stands up to him. She knows the tumult that a heart undergoes when it is forced to accept the unacceptable. Hers hasn’t yet healed. One day however, a bad fall forces Edmond to accept Roses support”.

Directed by Stephanie Chuat and Veronique Reymond. Special thanks to Christophe Vauthey, Consul, Cultural Affairs of the Consulate General of Switzerland, and Francine Brucher of Swiss Films.

Not Rated

Running Time: 87 Minutes

PLEASE NOTE: This is our first “official” event at the Landmark La Jolla Village Cinemas, located at 8879 Villa La Jolla Drive.

ALSO PLEASE NOTE: LA PETITE CHAMBRE (THE SMALL ROOM) is in French with English subtitles.

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26-Jan-11: Mroe - Rating: 4

I have very high regard for people who are much older (and of course wiser than me) and like the co-creators/directors I too have a very close relationship with my Grandmother, so I could relate to the relationship between Rose and Edmond. I also find it interesting how it seems easier for some to bond and be close to people who are not related by blood. Why is it easier to connect to initially strangers and become even closer the a son and his father? I think this is a great start for two new up-in-comers and look forward to their future projects.

6-Jan-11: Karolen - Rating: 5

I really thought this movie verged on brilliant. Having worked with seniors on and off over the years, I fully understood all of the issues raised during the film. I'm a big believer in what intergenerational sharing has to offer. This film was a wonderful mix of the circular motion of life and death, love and loss. The umbrella in the snow left me feeling amazingly hopeful. Here was a man who knew where he wanted to be at the end of his life--reunited with his departed wife. And the final shots of Rose opening the packet of pictures from Edmund's son as her husband is dismantling the lost baby's room was so touching--and as the camera pulls away we see a new life is blooming within Rose. Stunning film. This one better be nominated. It was a real treat having the filmakers join us. Thanks Andy. You've done it again :)

5-Jan-11: Georgi - Rating: 3

A lyrical sad poem for the screen. Why a three? It seemed a bit empty, although lovely and hopeful at the end. Visually a clear journey of stark images. The majesty of the mountains and the dreariness of the small, cramped apartment interiors perhaps drew attention to the grandeur of life beyond. The sadness was emphasized in the monochromatic colors and quietness of the story telling. And, just as a poem winds its way through to a shortlived feeling, so did this "petite" but sweet movie. Just didn't have the depth of Rabbit Hole. And that's why the rating. A good beginning for these enthusiastic young filmmakers.

5-Jan-11: Barry - Rating: 4

This was a terrifically well directed movie. I especially liked those scenes where the conclusion was not shown and there were a few, e.g. the umbrella in the snow.

5-Jan-11: Mary S - Rating: 5

Bravo for a film from the heart for the heart. Bravo also for a film that shows a female lead with no implants, no heavy makeup and occasional bad hair. Great speakers too - thanks, Andy.

5-Jan-11: judy s - Rating: 5

After listening to the two women detail their intention of addressing the gap that exists between generations emotionally and physically, I can only say bravo. They achieved their goal with grand sensitivity. Did we ask about their next project? Surely worth hearing about and seeing.

5-Jan-11: RichG - Rating: 3

Two movies about the loss of children within a one month span is a bit much to stomach. This little film had several interesting points to make. It showed the "bookends" of life. Edmund (wonderfully portrayed) allowed Rose to deal with the loss of her unborn child while she cared for him. His death provided her with a way to grieve not experienced before. Edmund knew it was time to "leave" when he gave his son "permission" to move to New York. He chose suicide in lieu of "dying in stages." This was a noble effort by the two young film maker for a first feature presentation. They chose their cast well and presented the tale with feeling and respect. I'm sure they will grow in the business for years to come.