Young Mothers (2025)

Perhaps thanks to Valentine’s Day, this was a much smaller audience for us. Those who attended certainly didn’t regret it. Although outwardly simple, this was a film with depth, commitment and heart.

Five teenage mothers live in a supportive shelter, where they learn the skills to cope with their babies. They also make decisions about whether to keep their child. All face great life challenges, but the film ultimately conveys hope for the future.

This docudrama by the acclaimed Belgian Dardenne brothers, now in their 70s, was wholesomely praised by our discussion group.  We were all touched by the film and found it “incredibly moving.” It was, said a younger member, “About finding human connection and perseverance in troubling times.”

We appreciated the Dardenne brothers’ ‘show – don’t tell’ technique and the way the handheld camera gave a natural, intimate approach.  It was felt that the filmmakers’ years of wisdom, maturity and experience led to this cinematic achievement. “They created something beautiful, with dignity, out of something sad,” said our appreciative filmmaker in the group.

The urban, beige Liège setting really set the scene – the Dardenne brothers always use their home town as a backdrop. Certain elements – including a Flemish rice tart in one scene - chimed with one of our members who had links with Belgium.

There is a warm and affirming final scene with one of the girls and her supportive boyfriend, as they visit a former supportive teacher’s house. They ask her to witness their marriage. The film ends with the sense of a silver lining and the joy that new life can bring. We all felt very moved.

“It’s one of the best films I’ve ever seen,” said one of our discussion group.  I’m sure we all felt that we’d like to experience more by this remarkably skilled Belgian filmmaking duo.

Anne