The Adolescent (original French title L'adolescente) is a 1979 French-West German drama directed by Jeanne Moreau, set against the backdrop of the impending Second World War. The film follows 13-year-old Marie, who develops an innocent crush on the town's Jewish doctor while visiting her grandmother in the French countryside during the summer of 1939. This personal awakening becomes intertwined with the complex adult relationships around her, as her parents engage in separate affairs with the same doctor, creating a web of emotional tensions that mirror the gathering storm of historical events.

Jeanne Moreau's direction brings a delicate, observational quality to this coming-of-age story, capturing the subtle shifts between childhood innocence and adult awareness. The performances, particularly from the young lead, convey the confusion and curiosity of adolescence with remarkable authenticity. The film's historical setting adds layers of meaning, as personal dramas unfold against rising anti-Semitism and the threat of war.

Viewers should watch The Adolescent for its nuanced exploration of how political realities intersect with private lives, and for its sensitive portrayal of a young girl's emotional awakening. The film offers a thoughtful, character-driven drama that examines the end of innocence both personally and historically, making it a compelling watch for fans of European cinema and period dramas.