Nicolas Philibert’s latest documentary Sur l’Adamant offers a tender, warm, and intricate portrait of life aboard the Adamant, a floating social centre on the Seine which provides mental health care. This vessel, moored in the heart of Paris, a vibrant mix of art studio and Mississippi gambler’s riverboat, stands as a beacon of hope.Winner of the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin film festival, Philibert’s empathetic lens portrays a community that is transformed by art, music, literature, and camaraderie. Offering a refuge from the chaotic pace of city life, the Adamant encourages self- expression in its visitors, many of whom are talented artists. Philibert guides us through moments of delight and moments of melancholy, as well as of joy, pain, and resilience. The heartfelt and memorable performance by one of the ship’s regulars, François, of a 1970s rock tune epitomises the determined spirit of those on board in this nurturing environment.Philibert’s approach to filming avoids explicit commentary or editorialising, and instead prioritises real-life character portraiture, unearthing deep narratives from ordinary, everyday moods and moments. Through an assemblage of individual narratives, the film paints a broader picture, subtly shifting between individual stories and shared experiences, creating a textured, rich mosaic of life aboard the Adamant.The documentary echoes a vital sentiment in the realm of mental health care — respect the individuality of each patient, foster a space that counters dehumanisation and promotes healing through human connection and artistic expression. The Adamant challenges preconceived notions associated with ‘madness,’ and pushes the boundaries of psychiatric care.This introspective journey captivates with poetic expressions of shared humanity, presenting a compelling argument for a more compassionate, art-based approach to mental health care. A testament to the indomitable human spirit, Philibert’s film shines a light on a revolutionary model of holistic healing.Nicole Guillemet