Synopsis
Born in 1969 in Borneo lowland rain forests, Nénette has just turned 40. It’s extremely rare for an orangutan to reach that age! Residing at the menagerie of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris since 1972, she’s been there longer than any member of the staff. An undisputed star of the place, she sees hundreds of visitors pass by her cage each day. Naturally, everyone has their own comments to make…
A word from Tënk
Indolent and contemplative, Nénette is the most renowned resident of the menagerie at the Jardin des Plantes. Admirers press against the glass of her enclosure, amused, astonished, and awestruck. Nicolas Philibert paints a beautiful portrait of this orangutan, lounging in her quarters before a captivated audience. Her calming presence is infectious. In the background, unseen curious onlookers, keepers, and primatologists take turns speaking about Nénette in various languages, with a nearly childlike affection. The sounds, voices, and distant echoes of the outside world reveal Nénette’s strangely contemplative nature. This unique portrait gives the impression that Nénette is observing us, reflecting back our own human condition.
L’équipe du Laboratoire CinéMédias
