This film has the particularity of being "multiform," in the sense that it has been applauded in both documentary and animation festivals. The filmmaker indeed proposes a hybrid work in which documentary images, captured on the fly, coexist with images created in puppet animation. There is no ambiguity between the two types of images. However, a kind of chemistry occurs here, as these two filming modes blend together to create a singularly organic, coherent, fluid, and complete work. Madeleine, the brave centenarian with whom Raquel Sancinetti forms a friendship, is endearing and funny, even surprising herself by being so old! The animated sequences take us on a rollicking adventure, with the director deciding to take Madeleine to the beach. We find ourselves in a makeshift environment (the beach resembling the Sahara - even a camel makes an appearance). But these animated images are essential for bringing out Madeleine's humanity, her sense of humour, her zest for life. Madeleine has indeed won numerous awards, including the Audience Award and the Best Character Award at the 2023 Sommets du cinéma d'animation.

Marco de Blois
Artistic Director
Sommets du cinéma d’animation