Dalva (2023) - Movie Review

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩(4/5)


Introduction: Dalva is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film directed by Emmanuelle Nicot. It tells the story of 12-year-old Dalva (Zelda Samson), who lives and dresses like an adult. When she is taken away from her home and placed in a child protection shelter, she meets Jayden (Alexis Manenti), a compassionate social worker, and Samia (Fanta Guirassi), a fellow resident with a strong personality. Through these relationships, Dalva begins a new chapter in her life.

Plot Summary: The film starts with a dramatic police raid that leads to the arrest of Dalva's father, Jacques (Jean-Louis Coulloc'h), and her subsequent placement in foster care. Confused and distraught, Dalva struggles to understand the situation and longs to be reunited with her father. She maintains her adult-like appearance and mannerisms, influenced by her father's manipulative actions. As Dalva interacts with her roommate Samia and her social worker Jayden, she gradually unravels the truth about her past and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

Acting and Performances: Zelda Samson delivers a remarkable performance in her debut role as Dalva. Her portrayal captures the complexity of the character, transitioning from a strong-willed and misguided young girl to a vulnerable and introspective child. Samson's ability to convey Dalva's emotional turmoil through subtle gestures and expressions is truly impressive. The supporting cast, including Fanta Guirassi and Alexis Manenti, also deliver commendable performances, adding depth and authenticity to their respective roles.

Direction and Filmmaking: Emmanuelle Nicot showcases great skill in her directorial debut. Her sensitive approach to a delicate subject matter allows the audience to empathize with Dalva's journey. The film's pacing is well-balanced, gradually revealing the layers of Dalva's story while maintaining a sense of intrigue. Nicot's visual storytelling is particularly effective, utilizing close-ups and framing techniques to convey Dalva's evolving emotions and experiences.

Writing and Dialogue: The script of Dalva delves into complex themes of abuse, manipulation, and the impact of trauma on a young individual. Emmanuelle Nicot's writing skillfully navigates these sensitive topics, offering a nuanced exploration of Dalva's perspective. The dialogue is realistic and impactful, capturing the struggles and conflicts faced by the characters. The script effectively portrays the transformation of Dalva's mindset and her gradual understanding of her own victimhood.

Themes and Messages: The film explores themes of childhood trauma, identity, and the power of human connection. It sheds light on the devastating effects of abuse and the resilience of the human spirit. Through Dalva's journey, the movie emphasizes the importance of support, understanding, and empathy in helping individuals heal and rediscover their true selves.

Entertainment Value: Dalva captivates the audience with its compelling narrative and strong performances. While it tackles serious subject matter, the film balances moments of emotional intensity with heartfelt moments of hope and resilience. The story's progression keeps viewers engaged, eager to witness Dalva's growth and transformation.

Emotional Impact: The emotional impact of Dalva is profound. The film delves into the depths of Dalva's traumatic experiences, evoking empathy and raising awareness about the long-lasting effects of abuse. The performances, coupled with the powerful storytelling, elicit a range of emotions, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Production Design and Visual Elements: The production design of Dalva effectively captures the contrasting worlds of the shelter and Dalva's previous life. The visuals provide a stark juxtaposition, reflecting the stark contrast between Dalva's self-imposed adulthood and her journey towards rediscovering her innocence. The cinematography expertly captures the characters' emotions, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Soundtrack and Music: The film's soundtrack complements the narrative, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. The music underscores the tension, vulnerability, and moments of hope, adding depth to the storytelling and amplifying the audience's emotional connection to the characters.

Comparisons and References: Dalva stands as a unique and powerful film in its exploration of a young girl's journey through trauma and self-discovery. While it shares thematic elements with other works that address similar subjects, such as Nora Fingscheidt's System Crasher, Dalva distinguishes itself through its distinct perspective and narrative approach.

Personal Opinion and Recommendation: Dalva is a poignant and thought-provoking film that tackles difficult subject matter with sensitivity and depth. It showcases impressive performances, particularly from Zelda Samson in her debut role. Emmanuelle Nicot's direction and the film's overall execution make it a compelling and memorable viewing experience. I highly recommend Dalva to those seeking a thought-provoking drama that explores the complexities of the human spirit and the power of resilience.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩(4/5)