With a dead father, an irresponsible mother, a difficult social sphere and at a difficult age, Malony goes into a destructive spiral into delinquency. As he steals cars, is violent, uses words like a weapon, he evolves under the gaze of a judge for minors who tries to help him in any way possible, aided by a teacher that Malony fights with constantly. From age six to 16, Malony battles society, others and himself.

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Standing Tall is many things: an extraordinary opening movie at the Cannes Film Festival, far from heavily criticized Hollywood fare like the awful The Great Gatsby and Grace of Monaco; a great public revelation of the actress, screenwriter and director Emmanuelle Bercot who has remained relatively discreet up to now; and a pure and simple strong favorite. It is a powerful, emotional film that resonates both due to its socially engaged approach and its magnificent energy – thanks also to the amazing cast, newcomer Rod Paradot as well as the always impressive Catherine Deneuve and Benoît Magimel. Screenwriter of Polisse and Maïwenn and actress in Mon roi, Emmanuelle Bercot’s film was presented in competition, going against big names and proving herself a remarkable directorial talent.