Toni

 

     Written and directed by Nathan Ambrosioni, this new French film is a heartfelt comedy/drama starring Camille Cottin. Ms. Cottin plays Toni, a former pop star, now raising a family of five (in different teenage stages) on her own.

       The beauty of Mr. Ambrosioni's script is how well he has defined each character, giving each each member of the family a full bodied personality and equal representation throughout the film. A rare occurrence in an ensemble piece.

        Ms. Cottin is wonderful, in a part written specifically with her in mind. She balances her hectic family life, trying to give attention to each child, even while trying to figure out a future for herself. Her children are played by Lea Lopez, as Mathilde, the oldest, followed by Thomas Gioria as Marcus, Louise Labeque, as Camille, Oscar Pauleau as Timothee, and Juliane Lepoureau as Olivia, the youngest. Cast after seeing about 500 kids, these five are just terrific and their chemistry with Ms. Cottin is so natural, you would think you were watching a real family.

        This is only Mr. Ambrosioni's second feature film. Based on this work, the young director has a long career ahead of him.