Célestine

Célestine is a fictional character from the 2014 French drama film *Célestine*, directed by Olivier Ducastel and Jacques Martineau. The film is based on the 2006 novel *Célestine* by Philippe Besson, which was inspired by the real-life story of a young woman named Célestine Bonnet, who was convicted of murder in 19th-century France.

In the film, Célestine is portrayed by actress Adèle Exarchopoulos, who won the Palme d’Or at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival for her performance. The character is depicted as a young, working-class woman from the Parisian suburbs who becomes entangled in a tragic and sensational murder case. The story explores themes of class, justice, and the media’s portrayal of crime and punishment.

The plot follows Célestine’s life before and after the murder of a wealthy man, which she is accused of committing. The film delves into her background, her relationships, and the societal pressures that shape her fate. The narrative is presented in a nonlinear structure, alternating between past and present, to illustrate how her life is irrevocably altered by the crime and its aftermath.

Célestine’s story has sparked discussions about the treatment of marginalized individuals in the justice system and the sensationalism of crime narratives. The film’s raw and unflinching portrayal of its protagonist has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. While the character is fictional, her story draws inspiration from real events, adding a layer of historical and social commentary to the work.

The film’s success, including its Cannes award, cemented its place in contemporary French cinema as a powerful exploration of human vulnerability and systemic injustice.