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"The Faces of Children" - the immortal classic of silent cinema at the "Cine Club"

Jun 16, 2026 Cineclub

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As part of the regular screening of the “Cine Club” at the National Library of Armenia, one of the masterpieces of silent cinema by French director Jacques Fader, “Visages d’enfants” (“Faces of Children”, 1925), was presented. The movie centers on little Jean, who is grieving her mother's passing and finds it hard to accept her father's choice to establish a new family. The film is still regarded as one of the most realistic and touching stories about childhood ever filmed because of the extraordinary psychological depth with which the child's experiences, inner turmoil, jealousy, and suffering are conveyed.

Although the film was shot in 1923, it was released in 1925 and immediately received international recognition. Film critics of the time called it a masterpiece of world cinema, and in Japan the film was recognized as the best European film of the year. Also noteworthy is the natural and sincere performance of the main character Jean Forest, who is still considered one of the best child roles in silent cinema.

The film, which is set against the stunning Swiss Alps scenery, is remarkable for both its narrative and its superb photography. Nature here is not just an environment, but a full participant in the story, reflecting the feelings and inner world of the characters. The snowy mountain scenes are especially memorable, giving the film a painterly uniqueness. Almost a century later, “Visages d’enfants” continues to excite and interest the audience, proving that stories about human feelings, family relationships and loss know no time limits. This film is considered one of the most important pages of not only French, but also world cinema and continues to occupy its rightful place among the best works in the history of cinema.