Events

Strand Releasing is proud to announce the release of GIRLHOOD, writer/director Céline Sciamma’s raw and tender look at a group of black high school students living in the tough banlieues of Paris, grounded by an incendiary performance from newcomer Karidja Touré.

Fed up with her abusive family situation, lack of school prospects and the “boys’ law” in the neighborhood, Shy Marieme (Karidja Touré) starts a new life after falling in with a group of three free-spirited girls.  She changes her name, her style, drops out of school and starts stealing to be accepted into the gang.  When her home situation becomes unbearable, Marieme seeks solace in an older man who promises her money and protection.  Realizing this sort of lifestyle will never result in the freedom and independence she truly desires, she finally decides to take matters into her own hands.

French director/writer Céline Sciamma’s debut feature “Water Lilies,” catapulted her as one of France’s most fresh and notable women directors, garnering her a César nomination for Best First Feature as well as the prestigious Prix Louis Delluc for Best First Feature awarded by the French Film Critics.  Her second film, Tomboy, won the Teddy Jury Award at the 2011 Berlin International Film Festival. This is Ms. Sciamma’s third feature film.