The title may refer both to the nuns who have had their innocence invaded and to the children who through no fault of their own become both blessing and curse. The Innocents is a solemn experience that given the weight of its subject could hardly be otherwise. It’s hard to believe there is a World War II story the movies haven’t told yet. This is one, and it’s worth telling: http://www.cutprintfilm.com/reviews/the-innocents/
shareI liked it a lot: it may be Anne Fontaine's best film so far (I would've otherwise named 'Comment J'ai Tué Mon Père as her prime achievement, but that had a lot to do with Michel Bouquet's immense performance).
Even if Fontaine is French, it truly had a feeling of Eastern Europe cinema to it: the cinematography, the upsetting, but dry style. Reminded me a bit of Stefan Uher's WW2 convent dramas like "Three Daughters" and "The Organ". Agata Kulesza possesses such a natural intensity and commanding presence.
Right on, the film is compelling and well told. I would have hoped these nuns would have had more wisdom in their dealing with this tragedy, letting their faith help in its solution rather than hinder it.
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