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A Reel Life film section

Issue: Autumn 2014

Young and Beautiful (Jeune & jolie) (2013) movie review

Sex Served Cold

Isabelle's introduction to sex is on a family holiday. It is disappointing, but on her return to Paris she takes up a part-time secret life of hotel room prostitution.

Throughout the film, the sessions, the discovery and the aftermath, Isabelle remains dispassionate, unashamed and even uninterested in the reality of her actions.

Young and Beautiful describes, but does not deeply explore, the teenage prostitution of a well-off young woman. As a 17 year-old, she is legally considered a victim, but she conducts her business with a knowing coldness that suggests that she has made a choice.

Movie poster, Young and Beautiful (Jeune & Jolie), Festivale film review; 220x324

Movie poster, Young and Beautiful (Jeune & jolie)

Some have described Young and Beautiful as a "contemplation of adolescent sexuality", but Isabelle, despite her profession, is sexless. Her disassociation and disinterest makes it impossible to relate to her, or even to care very much about what will happen to her. We are left with the suspicion that she will not live a very giving or fulfilled life unless she changes, and that seems very unlikely.

Uninvolving.

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by Ali Kayn
Australian release 2013
For credits and official site details, see below
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Just the facts:

Title: Young and Beautiful (Jeune & jolie) (2013)
Written by: Francois Ozon
Directed by: Francois Ozon
Running time: 95 mins
Rating: R

The Players: Marine Vacth, Geraldine Pailhas, Charlotte Rampling

Official website:
IMDb entry

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