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The Little Violet Blossoms is a film I'd recommend to viewers ages 13 to 18 years of age. It's messages, encouragement for empowerment, moments in history, and overall production quality meets all the standards for festival. We learn about the most recognizable life events of St. Claudine Thevenet. There are tragic events from her life that compare to Glady Singh, a young lady whose life is turned upside down after returning home from boarding school. As a viewer, I rooted for Glady and I learned a lot about the history of The Little Violet Blossoms' origin and global reach. I felt empowered especially as a woman. Glady is played by Alina Ahmed, an intense actress talented enough to fill multiple emotions and characters, no matter the timeframe. I appreciate the director's attempt at making me even feel empathy for even the worst character, played by Adnan Baig. The cinematography is brilliant. I like that drones are used, especially when Glady has to say her final goodbye. As to the costumes and hair, it's apparent that the film involves flashbacks and goes back to the 1800s. The wardrobe and hair department portrays that quite well. The set design is another favorite for me with all the gorgeous flowers, trees, and lighting that bring a sense of warmth and loving vibe. I also notice the song selections coincide well with the theme. Along with the incredible music, artistic expression and visually appealing set, the locations touch my spirit in a very positive way. There is a continuous flow throughout the film, including the visit to the 1800s. I really appreciate when a film ties up every situation in a film, because I do not feel like things go unanswered. The message is about the motivation of The Little Violet Blossoms to excel ever higher and ever upward, even at the lowest points of one's life. The topic of being transformed and moving on is a topic that anyone can relate to. Yes I absolutely would recommend this film. Due to the graphic scenes with blood and other visuals, sounds and violence, I recommend it for ages 13 through 18, as well as adults and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewed by Elle S., KIDS FIRST! Juror. This film would appeal to a faith based audience or festival. I find it inspiring that St. Agnes High School chose to celebrate the 200th anniversary of their congregation by producing a feature film based on the story of the school's foundress St. Claudine Trevenet, the epitome of grace during the French Revolution.
St. Claudine Thevenet is a name that epitomizes love, sacrifice and compassion. The founder of the Religious of Jesus and Mary (1818), Claudine was born in a modest French family as the second of seven children. The execution of her two brothers during the French Revolution was the turning point in Claudine's life. It was from this point on that she decided to devote her life to the service of others. The Little Violet Blossoms is a humble attempt to uphold and honour the values and teachings of St. Claudine Thevenet that are relevant even today. The story of our film juxtaposes St. Claudine's life during the French Revolution with the life of our protagonist, 14-year-old Glady Sequeira in today's times. As Glady is confronted with the violent murder of her parents, she not only has to cope with this tragic loss, but she must also identify the culprit responsible for her parents' murder. Through Glady's journey of dealing with this conflict, she is reminded of various teachings of St. Claudine Thevenet. Eventually, Glady is able to let go of the hurt and anguish as she embraces the most valuable lesson St. Claudine imparted through her own life, that of unconditional love and forgiveness.
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