Ulysse, a French dramedy directed by Laetitia Masson, hits theaters on June 17, 2026. Presented as the closing film of the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival 2026, the movie follows a mother grappling with her son's genetic diagnosis and how he might find his place.
Ulysse
Dramedy | 2026
Theatrical release: June 17, 2026
Running time: 1h37
Directed by Laetitia Masson | Starring Élodie Bouchez, Alphonse Roberts, Stanislas Merhar, Romane Bohringer
Nationality: France
Distributor: ARP Sélection
The film centers on Alice, a sociology researcher, who discovers she’s pregnant. With her husband Luc, they welcome a boy named Ulysses. From the outset, doctors notice the child isn’t following the usual growth trajectory. The diagnosis comes: Ulysses has a genetic syndrome.
From this family situation, Ulysse traces the journey of a child whose development falls outside the expected norms. The film also follows Alice’s determination as she supports her son in his learning and strives to allow him to exist on his own terms, beyond the medical or social gaze imposed on him.
Laetitia Masson writes the screenplay and directs the film. The cast features Élodie Bouchez as Alice, Alphonse Roberts as Ulysse, Stanislas Merhar as Luc, and Romane Bohringer. The film was selected for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, where it was shown as the closing feature of the Un Certain Regard section.
Ulysse may appeal to viewers who are drawn to family dramas and stories focused on disability, childhood, and parenting. The film isn’t aimed at those seeking a lighthearted comedy, as its subject centers on an intimate journey and a difference to live with day by day.
The movie is pitched as suitable for all audiences, though its subject matter may warrant some parental guidance for younger viewers, as it tackles a genetic disease, adult viewpoints, and the learning journey of a child who is different.
The official trailer for Ulysse offers the first look at Laetitia Masson’s film.
To extend the in-theater experience, check out the June movie releases, the films to see right now, and our selection of the drama comedies of the year.
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