Although it operates largely in isolation from the rest of the country, Quebec鈥檚 film industry has a history of producing engaging and boundary-pushing flicks.
Louise Archambault鈥檚 Gabrielle is one of the industry鈥檚 latest offerings, and it does its part to uphold that reputation.
The film follows Gabrielle, a young woman with Williams Syndrome who sings in a choir for developmentally delayed adults at the local community centre.
Although it leaves its victims in a kind of limbo between childhood and adulthood, Williams Syndrome also gifts them with contagious personalities, eloquent speech and exceptional musical gifts.
So when Gabrielle falls in love with one of the members of her choir, audience members experience the joy and agony of that journey through her unique perspective.
When her beau鈥檚 parents vow to keep the 鈥渄ifferent鈥� couple apart, Gabrielle decides that living an independent life will save her relationship. Her struggle for independence is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, but always shaded by her joyous nature.
The role of Gabrielle is played by Gabrielle Marion-Rivard, who herself has Williams Syndrome. In an era where disabled and developmentally delayed characters are often played by able-bodied actors, Louise Archambault鈥檚 casting choice is refreshing.
Archambault recognized that no actor, regardless of how good they are, can truly understand what it鈥檚 like to see the world through the eyes of someone like Gabrielle. So she got Gabrielle herself to show the audience.
Like previous Jasper Film Club offerings, Gabrielle offers a glimpse of the world through a truly unique lens.
See the film at the Chaba Theatre March 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Trevor Nichols
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