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Arts Intel Report

Young Mothers

A still from Young Mothers.

Streaming on Theaters

The Belgian directors Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne are known for making movies that feel like real life, often focusing on the struggles of the working class. The films rarely exceed 90 minutes and unfold over just a few days (see 2011’s The Kid with a Bike and 2014’s Two Days, One Night). Their latest movie, Young Mothers, is a perfect example of the understated yet profound Dardenne style, though it is a bit longer at 106 minutes. Set in a maternity home in Liège, it follows four teenage mothers as they navigate childbirth, family, love, and the decision of whether or not to keep their babies. Shot largely in a real shelter in the Belgian city and without extra lighting or set dressing, the film has an equally naturalistic script that earned the Dardenne brothers a screenplay award at last year’s Cannes Festival. —Jeanne Malle

Photo: Christine Plenus