It’s summertime in the fictive city of Biligen-sur-mer, and quiet retiree Louise (voiced by Dominique Frot) is sitting on the beach, watching children kicking up sand and enjoying their annual holiday. Taking notes in her diary, she recalls the time last winter when the town was all but empty and, after missing the final train out, she found herself stuck as a storm nearly washed things away and left her entirely alone.

Instead of being rescued by a helicopter (one is occasionally seen flying by), Louise decides to stay around and lead a simple existence by the shore, building a makeshift home out of a lifeguard post and suriving off oysters, shrimp and other things she pulls from the water. She even encounters her very own Friday in the form of a dog—and a talking one at that—who accompanies her on daily walks and forages in the surrounding cliffs.

From the director of The Painting, this is French animation at its best.

Free all-ages screening presented by Spark CG Society and VIFF Vancity Theatre in collaboration with Institut Français and the Consulate General of France in Vancouver. In French with English subtitles.

"An endearing and original take on the desert island genre." Jordan Mintzer, Hollywood Reporter

"Unexpectedly upbeat. With her humour, quiet determination and lack of fear of the future, Louise is a delight – a Robinson Crusoe in pearls and a panama hat." Wendy Ide, Screen Daily

*Tickets are free, but booking ahead is recommended. Seats are not guaranteed and will be allotted to ticket-holders on a first-come, first-served basis.