Calamity, a Childhood of Martha Jane Cannary

(Maybe Movies, Nørlum, Indie Sales)

Director: Rémi Chayé

Release Date: Limited release is planned in the U.S. in the first quarter.

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Not Available

Synopsis: A beautiful look at the imagined childhood of the plucky Western heroine as she takes her of her younger siblings and helps the family travel across the Oregon Trail, circa 1863.

Director Talk: ““Our movie is about a girl that crosses the cultural fence between genders. It’s also about the price she pays for doing so. It’s a movie that says that you don’t have to be defined by the strict traditions and gender stereotypes associated with being a girl. I hope that the public will leave the theater feeling that they have actually met Calamity Jane and know a lot more about this fascinating figure.”

The Word: “Calamity favors the simplicity of the line in an explosion of colors, a very judicious visual strategy which also highlights the bluegrass music composed by Florencia Di Concilio. But most of all, Chayé find the perfect balance to please all generations of viewers as they follow the adventures of a new female hero, the valiant and endearing flagbearer of the legitimate conquests of the female condition.” Fabien LeMerceier, Cineuropa Nomination Chances: Although its surprise last-minute arrival on the list of this year’s contenders might limit its exposure, the movie’s painterly qualities and powerful message of gender equality and championing those who fight gender stereotypes are irresistible. The film won the top prize for Best Animated Feature at Annecy and Best Children’s Film at Cinekid 2020.