Les enfants terribles (1950)

In the frosty throes of a schoolyard snowball fight, the captivating Dargelos hurls a snowball that strikes Paul's chest, leaving him unconscious. This fateful incident cements a deep-seated affection within Paul for Dargelos, an affection he nurses even when the rumors of a stone hidden within the snowball swirl around him. At home, his sister Elisabeth tends to his needs, their relationship defined by a series of private games and shared secrets within the confines of their shared bedroom. This intimate world is expanded when Gérard, a schoolmate of Paul's who harbors a secret affection for Elisabeth, becomes a frequent guest. The dynamic shifts further when Agathe, a striking new acquaintance of Elisabeth's, is introduced. Paul is enchanted by Agathe's uncanny resemblance to Dargelos, his heart quickly becoming ensnared in a web of love. This unconventional family unit is further disrupted when Elisabeth marries the wealthy Michael, only to be widowed the very next day due to a tragic car accident. Inheriting his vast apartment, complete with 18 rooms and a gallery, Elisabeth invites the others to move in. Paul, ever the sentimentalist, recreates their old bedroom in the gallery, a shrine to their past. As Paul and Agathe's affections for each other intensify behind closed doors, Elisabeth is consumed by jealousy. Her protective instincts mutate into something far darker, as she begins to weave a malevolent plot designed to wrench the two lovers apart. 'Les enfants terribles' is a turbulent exploration of love, jealousy, and the destructive potential of both. This tale of twisted affections and toxic relationships will leave audiences both chilled and captivated.

Les enfants terribles is a drama movie featuring Nicole Stéphane and directed by Jean-Pierre Melville.

Les enfants terribles is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.