The Child (2022)
A Franco-Portuguese period drama set in 16th-century Lisbon, tracing one young man's search for identity and belonging.
The Child - Movie Information
- Original Title: A Criança
- Release Year: 2022
- Directed by: Marguerite de Hillerin, Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Original Language: Portuguese
- Spoken Languages: French, Portuguese
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 10, 2022 (Portugal), April 13, 2022 (France)
- Alternative Titles: L'enfant (FR), A Criança (PT)
- Production Companies: Alfama Films, Leopardo Filmes
- Production Countries: France, Portugal
The Child - Plot
The story takes place near Lisbon, in the mid-16th century. Bela, an adopted young man, tries to find his place in a family that is free, but trapped in a world where each shadow allows imperfections to shine through.
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The Child - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Marguerite de Hillerin
- Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois
Main Cast
- Grégory Gadebois
- João Arrais
- Alba Baptista
- Maria João Pinho
- Loïc Corbery
- Inês Pires Tavares
- Albano Jerónimo
- Ulysse Dutilloy-Liégeois
- Cleonise Malulo
- Raimundo Cosme
Writers
- Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois
- Marguerite de Hillerin
Producers
- Paulo Branco
- Juan Branco
The Child - FAQs
What is The Child about?
The Child follows Bela, a young adopted man living near Lisbon in the mid-16th century, as he struggles to find his identity within a family that is outwardly free yet constrained by the shadows and imperfections of their world. It's a quiet, intimate drama about belonging and the weight of hidden truths.
Does The Child have a happy ending?
The Child leans toward melancholy rather than resolution. The film resists easy closure, leaving Bela's journey open-ended in a way that feels true to its themes of displacement and identity. Viewers looking for a tidy conclusion may find the ending quietly unsettling but emotionally resonant.
Where can you watch The Child online?
You can check current streaming and rental options for The Child on JustWatch, which lists all available platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your country, so JustWatch is the best place to find up-to-date viewing options.
Who directed The Child (2022)?
The Child was co-directed by Marguerite de Hillerin and Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois. The two filmmakers share both the directing and writing credits, bringing a unified creative vision to this Franco-Portuguese period drama set in 16th-century Lisbon.
Who are the main actors in The Child?
The cast is led by Grégory Gadebois as Pierre and João Arrais as Bela, with strong support from Alba Baptista as Branca and Loïc Corbery as Jacques. The ensemble also includes Maria João Pinho, Albano Jerónimo, and Inês Pires Tavares, blending French and Portuguese talent.
What languages is The Child filmed in?
The Child is a bilingual production spoken in both French and Portuguese, reflecting its co-production roots between France and Portugal. The original title is A Criança in Portuguese, and the film was also released as L'enfant in French-speaking markets.
Is The Child based on a true story?
The Child is not based on a specific true story. It is an original drama conceived by its co-directors Marguerite de Hillerin and Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois, set in a historically grounded 16th-century Portugal. The story draws on the period's social tensions rather than any documented real-life events.
What movies are similar to The Child?
If The Child resonates with you, explore other intimate dramas like Horse Money (2014), Father's Chair (2012), and Herself (2020), which share themes of identity and belonging. What Maisie Knew (2013) and Skin (2009) also offer similarly quiet, character-driven storytelling worth seeking out.
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