Bari, Italy – The 17th Bari International Film & TV Festival (Bif&st) is set to host the Italian premiere of “La più piccola” (The Little One), a poignant coming-of-age drama directed by Hafsia Herzi. The film, which garnered significant acclaim at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, will be screened in the Concorso Internazionale Meridiana section on March 25th, with Nadia Melliti, the film’s captivating lead actress, in attendance. “La più piccola” marks Herzi’s third foray into directing, following her previous films “Great Mother” (2021) and “You Deserve a Lover” (2019), and represents a significant step forward in her filmmaking career.
“La più piccola” is adapted from the autobiographical novel *La Petite Dernière* by Fatima Daas, published in Italy by Fandango Libri. The story centers on Fatima, a 17-year-old navigating the complexities of identity, faith, and sexuality within a Franco-Algerian family in the Parisian suburbs. The film delicately portrays her internal struggle to reconcile her religious upbringing with her burgeoning feelings for another woman, a journey marked by both vulnerability and resilience. The narrative explores the challenges faced by young queer individuals within conservative cultural contexts, offering a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of their experiences.
Nadia Melliti’s performance as Fatima has been widely celebrated, earning her a trio of prestigious awards at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival: Best Actress, the Queer Palm, and the award for Best Emerging Actress at the 2026 César Awards. Her portrayal is described as possessing an “edgy seriousness” that reflects the profound social and personal impact of a young Muslim woman embracing her lesbian identity, as noted by Deborah Young in a review for The Film Verdict. The Film Verdict highlights the film’s ability to balance emotional depth with moments of joy, presenting a frank yet sensitive depiction of a young woman’s self-discovery.
Hafsia Herzi: From Actress to Acclaimed Director
Hafsia Herzi is a well-respected figure in French cinema, initially gaining recognition as an actress. She is perhaps best known for her collaborations with director Abdellatif Kechiche, notably appearing in his critically acclaimed film *Couscous* (2007). The Guardian notes that Herzi’s work often explores themes of sexuality with confidence, a characteristic evident in “La più piccola.” Her transition to directing demonstrates a growing artistic vision and a commitment to telling stories that challenge conventional narratives. Her previous films laid the groundwork for this latest project, showcasing her evolving directorial style and her dedication to exploring complex human experiences.
“La più piccola” distinguishes itself by tackling a rarely depicted subject in Arab cinema: the intersection of Islamic faith and queerness. As reported by *The Film Verdict*, the film breaks a taboo by portraying a woman navigating her sexual identity within a religious framework. This courageous approach positions the film as a significant contribution to contemporary cinema, sparking important conversations about identity, acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in diverse cultural contexts. The film’s exploration of these themes is both sensitive and thought-provoking, offering a nuanced perspective on a complex issue.
The Story Behind the Screen: Fatima Daas’s Autobiographical Novel
The film’s foundation lies in Fatima Daas’s deeply personal and critically acclaimed novel, *La Petite Dernière* (The Last One). Published to widespread praise, the novel recounts Daas’s own experiences growing up as the youngest of three daughters in a Franco-Algerian family. According to *en.ara.cat*, the novel resonated with readers due to its honest and introspective portrayal of navigating cultural expectations, religious beliefs, and personal desires. en.ara.cat describes the story as capturing the “fragments of a life in which everyone feels represented,” highlighting its universal appeal and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Daas’s narrative explores the internal conflict of a young woman grappling with her identity while attempting to reconcile her personal desires with the expectations of her family and community. The novel’s success paved the way for Herzi’s adaptation, which aims to bring Daas’s story to a wider audience. The film’s adaptation remains faithful to the spirit of the novel, capturing the protagonist’s internal struggles and her journey towards self-acceptance. The film’s success is a testament to the power of autobiographical storytelling and its ability to foster empathy and understanding.
Bif&st and the Italian Premiere
The Bari International Film & TV Festival (Bif&st) has established itself as a prominent platform for showcasing international cinema, particularly films that explore socially relevant themes. The festival’s decision to host the Italian premiere of “La più piccola” underscores its commitment to presenting diverse and thought-provoking works to Italian audiences. The screening on March 25th will be a significant event, offering audiences the opportunity to experience the film on the big screen and to engage with the story’s powerful message.
The presence of Nadia Melliti at the festival adds to the excitement surrounding the premiere. Her acclaimed performance has generated considerable buzz, and her appearance will provide an opportunity for audiences to connect with the actress and to learn more about her experience bringing Fatima’s story to life. The festival’s organizers anticipate a strong turnout for the screening, reflecting the growing interest in independent cinema and the film’s compelling narrative. “La più piccola” is expected to resonate with audiences who appreciate authentic storytelling and films that challenge conventional norms.
Following its premiere at Bif&st, “La più piccola” is scheduled for a wider release in Italian cinemas on April 23rd, distributed by Fandango. This release will allow audiences across Italy to experience this critically acclaimed film and to engage with its important themes. The film’s distribution by Fandango, a leading Italian film distributor, suggests a strong marketing campaign and a broad reach to potential viewers. The film’s release is anticipated to generate further discussion and debate about identity, sexuality, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
“La più piccola” (La petite dernière) promises to be a moving and impactful cinematic experience, offering a glimpse into the life of a young woman navigating the complexities of identity and belonging. With its powerful performances, sensitive direction, and compelling narrative, the film is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences and to contribute to the ongoing conversation about diversity and inclusion in cinema. The film’s exploration of universal themes, combined with its unique cultural context, makes it a must-see for film enthusiasts and anyone interested in stories that challenge and inspire.
The film’s journey continues after its Italian premiere, with potential for international distribution and further recognition at film festivals. Audiences can glance forward to engaging with this powerful story and supporting a film that dares to explore complex and important themes. Stay tuned for updates on screenings and distribution plans as “La più piccola” continues to captivate audiences around the world.
What are your thoughts on the film’s themes? Share your comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!
Worth a look