In Jeunes mères, the new film by Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, we follow six young women in a shelter for teenage mothers. Some are barely adults, yet already bear the responsibility of a child — and a past that is rarely spoken of, but all the more palpable for it.   

The Dardennes once again demonstrate their mastery in choosing the right moment: every scene is set in the midst of life. Without sentimentality or dramatic exaggeration, they give space to despair and hope, to falling down and gently getting back up again. Jeunes mères is a film about love, fatigue, patience and the fragile possibility of starting over — not with grand gestures, but with small shifts.   

A compelling mosaic of motherhood, steeped in compassion. Moving in its simplicity, and at times downright devastating.