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Elza is a 2011 French drama film directed by Mariette Monpierre. The movie tells the story of Elza (Stana Roumillac), a young woman who leaves her native Paris to reconnect with her estranged father in her birthplace of Guadeloupe. A free-spirited soul, Elza is torn between two worlds - her French upbringing and the traditional beliefs of her Caribbean heritage.

The film begins with Elza in Paris, where she struggles to find her place in the world. She is unfulfilled in her job and unhappy in her relationship. An unexpected phone call from her father, whom she hasn't seen in over a decade, leads Elza to make the decision to travel to Guadeloupe and confront her family's past.

Upon arriving in Guadeloupe, Elza is met with resistance from her father (Vincent Byrd Le Sage) and his family. They are skeptical of her intentions and are not eager to welcome her into their lives. Elza is undeterred, however, and persists in her efforts to connect with her heritage.

As she delves deeper into her family's past, Elza discovers a hidden secret that sets her on a path of self-discovery. She learns about her mother's struggle to raise her and her siblings on her own, and the sacrifices she made to ensure their survival. Elza also uncovers the truth about her father's past and the choices he made that led to their estrangement.

Through her journey, Elza gains a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the world. She comes to realize that she doesn't have to choose between her French upbringing and her Caribbean roots - she can embrace both aspects of her heritage and find a sense of belonging in both cultures.

The film is beautifully shot, showcasing the vibrant colors and lush landscapes of Guadeloupe. The performances are strong, particularly from Stana Roumillac, who brings depth and vulnerability to her portrayal of Elza. Vincent Byrd Le Sage delivers a nuanced performance as Elza's complex and conflicted father, while Christophe Cherki provides a touch of humor as Elza's Parisian friend.

Overall, Elza is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage. It is a powerful reminder that we are shaped by our past, but ultimately it is up to us to choose our own path and create our own future.

Elza is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 76.