Dir: Philippe Lioret / France / 2009 / 110 minutes / Cert: 15A
Starring: Vincent Lindon, Firat Ayverdi, Audrey Dana and Derya Ayverdi. Language: French, Kurdish.
The multi award-winning new film from writer/director Philippe Lioret, WELCOME is a compassionate and inspiring drama about the hope of new beginnings and the power of true love. The film also focuses on illegal immigrants trying to reach England from Calais, and the risk taken by the French people who help them.
17-year-old Bilal has spent the last three months travelling illegally across Europe, in an attempt to reunite with his girlfriend Mina who has moved with her family to England. The long journey is almost over when he finally reaches Calais, on the far northern coast of France. But with all legal options exhausted, Bilal resolves that his only option is to learn to swim, and make the dangerous crossing himself. Bilal seeks the help of middle-aged swimming instructor Simon (Vincent Lindon),who risks everything by taking Bilal under his wing.
A huge critical and box office success in its native France, this profoundly moving masterwork was awarded the Ecumenical Jury Prize at the Berlin International Film Festival, named Best Film at the 2010 Lumiere Awards, and received an astonishing ten Cesar nominations including Best Film and Director.
