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Poster of La Ceremonie

La Ceremonie (1995)

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Plot

In the serene French countryside, lies the majestic manor of the Lelievre family, a beacon of the upper class. Catherine Lelievre, the sophisticated gallery owner, and her opera aficionado husband, Georges, together with their children, Melinda and Gilles, invite the quiet and efficient Sophie into their home as their new maid. A model of obedience, Sophie seamlessly integrates into the Lelievre household, her silent diligence earning her a valued place in their refined world. Amidst her dutiful servitude, Sophie finds an unlikely ally in the spirited postmistress, Jeanne, a notorious figure with a rebellious streak. Guided by Jeanne's audacious spirit, Sophie begins to challenge her role in the bourgeois household, although her subservience persists. However, Sophie harbors a secret, a shroud of illiteracy that casts a shadow over her perfect service. She navigates this clandestine struggle, continually finding ways to mask her illiteracy from the discerning eyes of the Lelievres. A turning point arrives when Georges expresses his disapproval for Jeanne's presence in his home. Emboldened by Jeanne's influence, Sophie dares to defy him, setting in motion a series of events that disrupt the tranquil veneer of the Lelievre household. When Melinda stumbles upon Sophie's secret, a game of blackmail ensues, leading to Sophie's dismissal when the truth inevitably surfaces. The plot thickens as Sophie, fueled by resentment, returns to the Lelievre home with Jeanne on a vengeful mission. The tranquility of the countryside manor is shattered, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats, waiting to see how the quiet rebellion will unfold.

Where to watch La Ceremonie?

La Ceremonie is a drama movie featuring Sandrine Bonnaire.

La Ceremonie is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.