A third feature for French writer-director Celine Sciamma, Bande de Filles (for the English version, Girlhood, which will first be shown in the United Kingdom) is a coming of age movie based in the projects of suburban Paris. The film which was given a prominent showcase at Cannes 2014, features newcomer actress Karidja Toure, whose performance has been widely praised. The plot follows character Marieme (Toure) during a pivotal time in her teen life. According to Hollywood Reporter:
When she learns that her grades are not good enough to continue high school, Marieme falls in with a gang of three local girls led with cool authority by Lady (Assa Sylla). She watches them shyly from the sidelines at first, but soon becomes immersed in their slacker routines, changing her dress code, swapping her braids for a more glam look and helping to fund their fun-time by fleecing her former schoolmates for cash. Lady gives her the gang name Vic.”
On a side note, Rihanna’s music is featured in the movie, her song “Diamonds” pops up in a scene in a train, in which the main characters loudly begin singing the popular tune. In a video below, the four actresses are interviewed (in French) but even for those who don’t speak the language, some of the questions are fairly obvious, especially given the exuberant replies. Favorite Rihanna song? Similar to the movie, they break into song and begin singing “Diamonds. ” Favorite actress? “Lupita Nyong’o!!!”
