INNOCENCE is the strikingly unique debut feature by writer director Lucile Hadzihalilovic.

Hadzihalilovic so far has been known for her association with the French director Gasper Noé. She edited Noe's debut Seul contre tous (I Stand Alone), and Noé has shot one of Hadzihalilovic‘s mini features The Eyes of Jean-Pierre. With the release of INNOCENCE Lucile Hadzihalilovic will be regarded as a new French talent to watch.

INNOCENCE is a dark yet beautiful fable that contrasts the atmosphere of the dark gothic horror writings of both Mary Shelley and Poe, with the light of youthful purity. This is startling debut feature explores themes around maturity, understanding, friendship, loss and happiness as young girls prepare for their ascent into womanhood.
A subterranean rumbling resonates in the heart of a forest. Hidden by foliage, a metal grate reveals underground passageways, which lead to the cellars of five houses scattered throughout a great park. The park is cut off from the outside world by a huge wall with no door.
In one of these houses, a group of girls aged between seven and twelve gathers around a coffin. The coffin lid opens, revealing a six-year-old girl. Her name is Iris.
Bianca, the eldest of the group, introduces Iris into this strange but pleasant boarding school, home to some thirty little girls. There are no adults here, save for several old servants and two young teachers: Mademoiselle Edith and Mademoiselle Eva.