What does it mean to care for another person’s child? Rachel, a single 40-year-old middle school teacher (Virginie Efira, “Madeleine Collins”), must ask herself this question when she falls in love with Ali and especially his four-year-old daughter, in the latest from Rebecca Zlotowski (Cannes competitor “An Easy Girl”). —M.G. Forty-something Rachel has built a beautiful life for herself. As a school teacher, Rachel is loved by her students, as well as by the many friends and family in her life. But as she approaches a certain age, Rachel finds herself contemplating the option of having children. What once was a hypothetical becomes an all consuming question after Rachel meets Ali, a charming divorced father who opens Rachel’s heart to the possibility of having a family. Not only is Rachel falling in love with Ali, but she also finds herself growing deeply attached to his daughter, four-year-old Leila, who in turn begins to see Rachel as a second mother. But navigating the complexities of her newfound family life turns out to be more difficult than Rachel had imagined, especially when Ali’s ex-wife is still a big part of his life. A deeply moving portrait of longing, love, and loss, OTHER PEOPLE’S CHILDREN captures the layered experience of womanhood, with and without motherhood. —G.S.

Other People's Children

International Narrative Competition

Reel Women Direct Award for Excellence in Directing By a Woman

This collection of films celebrates empowered women* of all kinds.*cis, trans, and non-binary inclusive