The Bélier Family

The French film The Bélier Family is probably one of the most successful since Children of a Lesser God. Released in France in 2014, it was seen in France by more than 7 million people and raised almost $74 million worldwide.

While the film does not focus on Sign Language, the protagonist's parents are Deaf and Sign Language has an indisputable role in the film, giving rise to some very funny scenes.

Children of a Lesser God was a romantic drama, while The Bélier Family is rather a dramatic comedy (according to IMDB). The plot of the film is as follows:

In the Bélier family, sixteen-year-old Paula is an indispensable interpreter for her deaf parents and brother on a daily basis, especially in the running of the family farm. One day, a music teacher discovers her gift for singing and encourages Paula to audition for the prestigious Maîtrise de Radio France music college in Paris, which will secure her a good career and a college degree. However, this decision would mean leaving her family and taking her first steps towards adulthood (Wikipedia)

This is the trailer for the film with English subtitles:

Hearing or Deaf actors?

In real life, all actors and actresses are hearing except for the protagonist's younger brother (Luca Gelberg), who is Deaf. However, the actors and actresses were learning Sign Language four hours a day for four or five months.

In addition, the film's director, Eric Lartigau, allowed the Sign Language teacher, Alexeï Coïca, and a Sign Language interpreter, Jennifer Tederri, to be present throughout the shoot. At the end of each scene, the director asked them if they were satisfied with the actors' Sign Language interpretation.

The film was very well received by critics (7.3 at IMDB). The main character, Louane Emera, who took part in The Voice television competition in France and reached the semi-finals, won the César Award for best promising actress.

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