La Petite Fadette

Landry and Sylvinet are identical twins who are distraught when they are separated at the age of fourteen. Sent to work on the neighboring farm because phylloxera has ruined his father's vines, Sylvain, the stronger of the two brothers, recovers from the shock but not Sylvinet, who keeps moaning and sulking. Caillaud, the rich farmer who employs Landry is pleased with the way Landry works and lets him woo his daughter Madelon. Some day, due to a misunderstanding between the twins, Sylvinet runs away from home and disappears in the forest. And while Landry tries to find him in the woods he is helped by a little savage, Fadette, who lives there with her spiteful grandmother and her brother. Against all odds, Landry will gradually for this dirty little wild child.

Directed by Michaëla Watteaux, La Petite Fadette leans on a strong ensemble — Jérémie Renier, Manuela Servais, Annie Girardot — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2004.