'Rose' celebrates reinvention and resilience in later life

Aurélie Saada's debut film explores grief, self-discovery, and familial bonds through the story of a widowed woman.

Françoise Fabian portrays a widow consumed by grief who tries to rediscover her zest for life, becoming "a true woman once more—elegant, charming, and in love." © Pierre Terdjman/Germaine Films

By Adelina Indah and Hayu Andini

Aurélie Saada makes her feature filmmaking debut with Rose, a poignant exploration of grief, self-discovery, and familial connections. Inspired by a personal anecdote, Saada crafts a moving narrative about a widowed woman learning to embrace life anew. The story, starring Françoise Fabian as the titular Rose, captures the transformative power of resilience and joy in the aftermath of profound loss.

The inspiration for Rose stemmed from a dinner party that Saada attended. Her grandmother, recently widowed, found herself drawn to the vitality of another guest: the filmmaker, writer, and Holocaust survivor Marceline Loridan-Ivens. This real-life moment served as a foundation for the fictional Rose’s journey, which unfolds with warmth and emotional depth.

The film introduces Rose as a grief-stricken woman grappling with the death of her husband, the man with whom her entire life was intertwined. Her sorrow is palpable, yet her transformation begins unexpectedly during a lively dinner party. Accompanied by her daughter Sarah, played by Aure Atika, Rose initially appears out of place in the exuberant setting. However, as the evening progresses, she begins to loosen up—sharing a joint with her companions and singing a Yiddish tune.

This pivotal scene, which Saada allows to play out in full, marks a turning point in Rose’s journey. It reflects the film’s attention to detail and emotional authenticity, which elevate what might otherwise feel like a predictable narrative. While the premise—an older woman discovering a zest for life—risks veering into sentimentality, Rose mostly avoids this trap through its nuanced storytelling and heartfelt performances.

Françoise Fabian delivers a deeply layered portrayal of Rose, capturing the character’s pain, hesitation, and eventual embrace of a more adventurous self. The film’s script, co-written by Saada and Yaël Langmann, injects moments of humor and warmth that balance the weightier themes of grief and self-reinvention.

One such moment occurs when Rose decides to try driving for the first time in 40 years. Initially a daunting challenge, the scene evolves into a triumphant metaphor for her newfound independence. As she masters the stick shift, the soundtrack swells with an exuberant 1980s cover of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” embodying Rose’s rediscovered confidence and joy.

The film also delves into Rose’s relationships with her adult children, Sarah, Pierre (Grégory Montel), and Léon (Damien Chapelle). These dynamics add depth to the narrative, as each child grapples with their mother’s transformation in their own way. Their differing responses reflect the complexity of familial bonds, particularly in the context of loss and change.

Sarah, the eldest, often acts as the voice of reason, yet her pragmatic approach contrasts sharply with Rose’s newfound spontaneity. Pierre and Léon bring their own perspectives, contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of emotional interplay. These relationships not only raise the dramatic stakes but also ground Rose’s journey in a relatable context, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of forging a new path while honoring the past.

Saada’s directorial choices imbue the film with warmth and authenticity. Her background as a singer shines through in the musical moments, which serve as key emotional beats. From the Yiddish song at the dinner party to the climactic driving scene, music becomes a vehicle for Rose’s self-expression and a symbol of her evolving identity.

The film’s closing scene leaves a lasting impression. Relying on a powerful performance by Fabian, Saada poses a direct question to the audience: What should Rose’s life look like moving forward? The answer, though unspoken, is clear—Rose’s journey is her own to define. This moment encapsulates the film’s central message: that it is never too late to rediscover oneself and embrace life’s possibilities.

Despite its strengths, Rose occasionally flirts with predictability. Certain plot points, such as Rose’s driving escapades, may feel familiar to seasoned viewers of self-discovery narratives. However, the film’s sincerity and Fabian’s commanding performance ensure these moments remain heartfelt rather than cliched.

Rose also benefits from its exploration of cultural identity and heritage. The inclusion of Yiddish music and references to Jewish traditions adds layers to the story, grounding Rose’s journey in a specific cultural context while resonating universally. These elements reflect Saada’s own background and lend authenticity to the narrative.

As a debut feature, Rose is an impressive achievement. Aurélie Saada demonstrates a keen ability to balance humor, emotion, and authenticity, crafting a story that feels both intimate and universal. The film’s exploration of grief and self-discovery resonates deeply, reminding viewers that life’s challenges can lead to unexpected joys.

For audiences seeking a heartfelt and inspiring tale, Rose delivers. Françoise Fabian’s portrayal of the titular character is nothing short of mesmerizing, anchoring the film with warmth and depth. Through Rose’s journey, Saada offers a celebration of resilience and the enduring power of human connection.

In Rose, Aurélie Saada invites us to reflect on our own lives and the moments that define us. The film’s message is clear: no matter our age or circumstances, the potential for reinvention and joy remains within reach. This beautifully crafted story serves as a testament to the transformative power of hope, resilience, and the courage to embrace the unknown.