Lidia Terki’s film is heartfelt and heartwarming in its simplicity and humanity while addressing the issues of economic immigration through a personal life story. Actress Tassadit Mandi gives an affecting performance as Rekia, an Algerian grandmother whose husband, Nour, was one of the many people who immigrated to France in the 1970s to earn a living. After 48 years his checks continue to arrive, but his letters cease. Against the will of her adult children, who feel their father deserted them, Rekia undertakes a grueling solo trip from her village by bus, boat and train to Paris where she meets and is aided by a group of young people, marginalized and living on the edges of Parisian society. Paris La Blanche is a film with many layers, which manages to transmit profound truths without preaching. It is a lesson about love, commitment, sacrifices, perseverance and the human spirit.
I believe there is a language beyond speech, something subtle and instinctive, which does not need words to be spoken and which can be understood by anyone, no matter their culture. Cinema is made for this kind of language.