Watch Young Solitude

Young Solitude is a French documentary film that portrays the lives of teenagers living in a Parisian suburb as they navigate through the complexities of adolescence. The film is directed by Claire Simon and was released in 2018. The documentary focuses on the lives of thirteen- to nineteen-year-olds from diverse backgrounds and their candid reflections on a range of subjects such as friendship, family, love, identity, politics, racism, and gender. Through a series of interviews and conversations, the film captures the raw emotions and intimate thoughts of these youths as they express their fears, dreams, and frustrations.

What sets Young Solitude apart from other coming-of-age films is its unflinching portrayal of youth culture in a contemporary urban context. The film sheds light on the social, economic, and cultural realities that shape this generation's experiences and how these factors impact their identities and aspirations.

The film also explores the ways in which technology and social media are shaping the lives of young people. The teenagers in the film talk about how social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat influence their self-image and social interactions. They also share their views on the darker side of these platforms, such as cyberbullying, fake news, and surveillance.

One of the overarching themes of the film is the experience of solitude among the teenagers. The film highlights how even in a hyper-connected world, young people can feel lonely and disconnected from others. Adolescence is not only a time of self-discovery but also a time of confusion, anxiety, and loneliness. The film underscores the importance of supportive relationships and a sense of community for young people to overcome these challenges.

The film's creative approach to storytelling and filmmaking is another standout feature. The interviews and conversations are interwoven with poetic images of the Parisian suburb where the teenagers live. The camera captures the beauty and the banality of everyday life in this neighborhood, from the dilapidated buildings to the lush greenery.

The film's non-linear narrative structure adds another layer of complexity to the storytelling. The teenagers' stories are not presented chronologically, but rather in fragments that create a mosaic of experiences and perspectives. This approach invites the viewer to actively engage with the film and make connections between the different stories.

Young Solitude is a profound and moving film that offers a rare window into the lives of today's youth. It is not only a portrait of a generation but also a commentary on the broader social and political context in which they live. The film invites us to reflect on our own experiences of adolescence and to empathize with the struggles of this generation.