A Second Life

Crip Ciné Gala Screening

France | 2025 | 77 min

Language: English, French

Subtitles: Finnish (descriptive)

Suitable for audiences aged 12 and above

Director(s): Laurent Slama

Script: Laurent Slama, Thomas Keumurian

Cast: Agathe Rousselle, Alex Lawther, Suzy Bemba

Production: 21juin Cinéma

Distribution: MMM Film Sales

Drama

Crip Ciné Friendship Identity Matter of Mind At Work Sports Without Sports Summer Vibes In Finnish

Screenings:

July 26, 2024 — the day of the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. Hearing impaired and self-destructive Elisabeth is torn between depression and the pressure of managing short-term rentals in a hectic Paris. Showing often-rude tourists to their rented apartments for the Olympic games raises the stress levels of Elisabeth and the audience alike. The only respite she has is by disconnecting her hearing aid and gazing at Monet’s “Water Lilies.” The arrival of Elijah, a radiant and carefree Californian, disrupts her fragile balance.

Stunningly shot on the streets of Paris, A Second Life reveals the best and worst of the City of Light. Agathe Rousselle, best known for the Palme d’Or winning Titane (2021), shines in the leading role and the detailed sound design carries through both ear-splitting noise of the city and deeply soothing soundscapes.

The movie balances rush and hopelessness with spontaneous encounters and sincere friendship.

Joonas Parviainen

Features themes of suicide.