once upon my mother
Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan
March 22 & 23 Sunday @ 2 pm Monday @ 7 pm
Director: Ken Scott
Cast: Leïla Bekhti, Jonathan Cohen, Joséphine Japy, Jeanne Balibar, Sylvie Vartan, Milo Machado-Graner, Naim Naji, Anne Le Ny
Released: 2025
Genre: Drama / Comedy-Drama
Country: France, Canada
Language: French (with English subtitles)
Run Time: 102 min
Distributor:
In 1963 Paris, Esther Perez refuses to accept the doctors’ grim prognosis that her youngest son, born with a clubfoot, will never walk. With unwavering faith, fierce determination, and boundless love, she dedicates her life to proving them wrong. Spanning years of hardship, small miracles, humor, and emotional struggle, the film is a heartfelt story of a mother’s devotion and the remarkable journey of her son’s life.
Content Advisory:
Contains mild language and themes of physical disability, parental pressure, family challenges, and emotional resilience.
Top Reviews:
“A heart-warming drama filled with joy and resilience, Once Upon My Mother celebrates the unconditional love and fierce determination of a mother who refuses to accept limits for her child. Its warmth and humor make it a truly uplifting watch.”
“Leïla Bekhti delivers a radiant performance as a devoted mother whose passion and persistence drive the film’s emotional core. The blend of humor, music, and heartfelt moments resonates long after the credits roll.”
“A charming and inspiring story based on real life, the film’s mix of wit and tenderness captures the power of family, hope, and belief against all odds — an engaging crowd-pleaser.”