Little Amélie or the Character of Rain: Directors Discuss Their Vision
Maïlys Vallade and Liane-Cho Han adapted Little Amélie or the Character of Rain with a distinctive graphic style. The film premiered this year in the Directors’ Fortnight at Cannes, receiving praise for its bold visuals and emotionally rich story, based on Amélie Nothomb’s bestselling autobiographical novel.
Film Overview and Recognition
- The 2D digitally animated French-language film won the Audience Award at Annecy.
- It premiered in North America at the Toronto International Film Festival.
- U.S. theatrical release is scheduled by GKIDS starting November 7.
Story Setting and Characters
The story is set in postwar Japan, where Western foreigners balanced between local traditions and their own culture. Amélie, voiced by Loïse Charpentier, spends her early years under the care of her dedicated nanny Nishio-san (Victoria Grosbois).
“To her family, she is a distant and unknowable cipher, reflecting the Japanese belief that young children are more akin to gods than humans.”
Amélie’s mysterious nature begins to change on her third birthday through a family event and her first experience with chocolate, which sparks her journey of discovery.
Creative Team
- Directors: Maïlys Vallade and Liane-Cho Han
- Screenplay by: Liane-Cho Han, Maïlys Vallade, Aude Py
- Art director and production designer: Eddine Noël (known for Long Way North and The Little Prince)
The film runs 78 minutes and showcases a unique blend of personal storytelling and artistic innovation.
“Little Amélie or the Character of Rain” brings a heartfelt, graphic portrayal of childhood discovery.
Summary: This film beautifully combines a visually bold style with a touching narrative, offering a poetic glimpse into childhood framed by cultural tradition and personal awakening.