The Children of the Marshland

In France between the wars, a handful of poor men live at the edge of a marsh: one gathers and sells snails, one is permanently drunk, one never came back properly from the war. They have no money, no plans, and they are happy. Jean Becker organises the film around seasons rather than plot, through visits, quarrels, brief romances and the river. Jacques Villeret and Jacques Gamblin hold the centre. The idea is plain, to put poverty and freedom in the same container and let the audience think about it without discomfort, and at times it turns too sweet. It was a large hit in France and found an audience across generations. Who it is for: viewers who like nostalgic French rural films and character portraits. Who it is not for: anyone wanting a critical eye, since the past here is openly prettified.