This year at Cannes, one of the most enchanting discoveries was Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, a French–Japanese–Belgian animated feature based on Amélie Nothomb’s beloved novel. Directed by Maïlys Vallade and Liane-Cho Han, the film is a luminous celebration of childhood, wonder, and resilience.Told from the perspective of a little girl growing up in Japan, the story unfolds with warmth, humor, and tenderness. Amélie experiences her first moments of awareness, discovers the magic of imagination, and slowly learns how to understand the joys and sorrows of the world around her. At its heart, the film delivers a message of empathy and discovery, perfectly suited for children and families, while resonating deeply with adults who will recognize echoes of their own childhood.The animation itself is breathtaking. Every frame is drawn with extraordinary care and artistry: soft light, delicate colors, and hand-crafted detail create a world that feels both real and dreamlike. Children will be transported by the beauty of the landscapes, the playful energy of the characters, and the gentle humor sprinkled throughout. For adults, there is the quiet poetry of an artist who knows how to speak to the heart through images.Little Amélie is more than just a film – it is an experience. It reminds us of the importance of curiosity, of listening, of cherishing the fragile moments of childhood that shape us forever, and it offers the rare gift of high-quality, meaningful cinema that entertains while inspiring young audiences to see the world with open eyes and open hearts.Nicole Guillemet