In a shelter in Liège, Belgium, a group of young women face the challenges and exhilaration of motherhood. Looking ahead to an uncertain future, the new mothers aspire to break free of the past and not repeat the cycles of neglect, abuse, and abandonment that have defined their young lives. Jessica grew up in a foster family, and must understand why her biological mother could not keep her. Perla wrestles with the unreliability of her boyfriend, and confronts the possibility that she may need to raise her child alone. Julie has a more stable partner, but cannot imagine parenthood until she overcomes her drug habit once and for all. And Ariane must protect her baby at all costs, with the daunting recognition that her home may not be safe for her daughter. Winner of the Best Screenplay prize at Cannes, the latest film from master directors Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne (Rosetta; Two Days, One Night), Young Mothers is a delicate and hopeful study of women on the brink of new life.
A New York Times Critic’s Pick! “A tender portrait... heartbreaking and true”
Alissa Wilkinson
The New York Times
"A gentle gift from the Dardenne brothers... At the heart of their work is the question of what we owe one another—what decency spurs us to do, and at what cost."
Justin Chang
The New Yorker
“The Dardennes are at their poignant best, capturing moments of heartbreak and hope.”
Bob Mondello
NPR
"A true modern classic... understated, graceful, and moving, it’s the first great film of 2026." "The sibling artists employ verité aesthetics that create a piercing sense of authenticity and urgency."
Nick Schager
The Daily Beast
Winner: Best Screenplay
Cannes Film Festival 2025
