Louise Hémon’s debut feature, L’Engloutie, was showcased at the Director’s Fortnight during the Festival de Cannes 2025. This edition was notable for a strong lineup of first-time filmmakers. Headlined by Galatea Bellugi, Matthieu Lucci, and Samuel Kircher, the film is set to hit theaters on December 24, 2025, following a successful run on the festival circuit.
The film was among the most highly anticipated works at this 57th edition, unveiled within the official selection, the Critics' Week, and the ACID selection. L’Engloutie fits well within this spirit of discovery, alongside other notable debut feature films.
1899, in a remote hamlet in the Hautes-Alpes. During a stormy night, Aimée, a young secular and republican schoolteacher, arrives to educate a handful of village children. Her arrival is met with suspicion and confusion, as the community is deeply rooted in old beliefs and a tough, mountain-paced way of life.
As Aimée becomes more involved in the community, a veiled, sensual unease begins to take hold, clashing with the strict moral and social expectations of the time. This fragile balance shatters when an avalanche claims the life of an early mountaineer, plunging the story into a darker, more collective realm.
Louise Hémon drew inspiration for her project from her family history, rooted in a lineage of teachers sent to remote areas. This personal memory informs the character of Aimée and lends the film both historical and intimate depth. The direction adopts a sensory approach, enhanced by shooting primarily in natural light, especially at night, using snow as a reflective surface to amplify the illumination.
The cast features a blend of seasoned actors and non-professional performers, all in pursuit of a deliberate sense of authenticity. Galatea Bellugi brings Aimée to life with a commanding physical presence, while Matthieu Lucci and Samuel Kircher support the story through moments that demand trust and precise performances, especially in the intimate scenes.
The Engulfing
Film | 2025
Release in theaters: December 24, 2025
Drama | Runtime: 1h37
Directed by Louise Hémon | Starring Galatea Bellugi, Matthieu Lucci, Samuel Kircher
Country: France
Showcased at numerous festivals, L’Engloutie has earned several prestigious awards, including the Jean Vigo Prize, the Critics’ Award at CEFF, and the Jury Prize at the Biarritz Nouvelles Vagues Festival. The film also received backing from the Gan Foundation for Cinema and led to Louise Hémon’s nominations for the Lumières Award from the foreign press.
With her debut feature film, Louise Hémon delivers a historical drama that is both visceral and contemplative, set against a backdrop and period rarely depicted from this perspective. L’Engloutie promises to be a significant auteur-driven film marking the end of the year.
To keep the cinematic experience going, check out the December movie releases, the recommended films to watch right now, and our top drama picks for the year.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
