The film Mémoire de fille, adapted from the autobiographical novel of the same name by Annie Ernaux, has been selected for the "Un certain regard" section of the Cannes Film Festival 2026. Directed by Judith Godrèche, the film features her daughter, actress Tess Barthélemy, who portrays Annie Ernaux on screen. The story explores themes tied to a specific era, a social environment, and the experience of a young woman dealing with violence, as detailed in the original novel. Annie Ernaux is invited to sign copies of her latest book in Rouen, the city of her childhood. As she travels there, she experiences a dizzying sensation that transports her back to the summer of 1958—the night of her first encounter with a man. This moment, described as a shockwave that altered her life, forms the emotional core of the story. The film has received mixed reviews on AlloCiné, with an average rating of 3.2 out of 5, based on 122 ratings and 63 reviews. Some viewers praised the faithful adaptation of Ernaux's narrative, highlighting the sensitivity of Tess Barthélemy's performance and the accuracy with which Judith Godrèche portrays power dynamics, masculine brutality, and trauma. N Golfe (5/5) noted that the film will resonate with younger audiences, as the story is modern and relevant to discussions about violence against young women and men in settings like summer camps, boarding schools, and high schools. Jacques Addy (5/5) described it as a magnificent adaptation of Ernaux's novel, addressing the loss of innocence due to a system of oppression and submission still present in today's society. Marie-Dominique LACOUR (5/5) praised the film's sensitive portrayal of a period in Ernaux's life and the director's successful adaptation of the book. Nathalie TEMPS-MERCIER (4.5/5) called the film beautifully performed and emphasized the importance of viewing it to foster discussions between men and women. Capirex du Club Allociné (4/5) noted that Judith Godrèche skillfully adapted the book and highlighted the director's focus on masculine brutality, shame, and the loss of her body. However, some viewers found the film too structured compared to the book, which left more room for emotional ambiguity. Mélanie M. (3.5/5) appreciated the film's good dialogues and well-made scenes, especially those depicting sexual violence, which were thoughtfully considered from the victim's perspective. However, she noted that the film was not pleasant to watch due to the content of the book it adapts. Lolacmlt14 (3/5) mentioned that the film shook them and suggested trigger warnings could be specified. The CritizMan (2.5/5) noted that the first half was solid and sensitive but felt the film ended up falling into a heavy, clichéd script around a summer love story. Fiona Pomme (2/5) preferred the book, which left more room for emotional ambiguity, and felt the film was more on track despite an excellent performance by the young actors and good cinematography. Ameline Grout from Club AlloCiné (1/5) criticized the film for being overwrought, with direction, costumes, and reenactments that felt unnecessary. She noted that despite the promising elements, the film did not take off and that the direction felt more illustrative of a text already written. In summary, Mémoire de fille has received mixed reactions, with some viewers finding the subject matter harsh and the staging illustrative. However, the film's interpretation and cinematography have been praised, particularly the scenes of sexual violence filmed from the victim's perspective. The film is currently in theaters.