HOLY COW
FIM REVIEW - D’A FESTIVAL 2025
A Story of Grief Between Cheeses
In this exclusive video, Noelia Serrano from TMN presents Holy Cow.
Louise Courvoisier makes her directorial debut with a coming-of-age story set in the French Alps—a bittersweet comedy that received the Youth Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section.
Within the rich and diverse selection of European cinema at this year’s D’A Film Festival, this French film directed by Louise Courvoisier (Geneva, 1994) stands out. It tells the story of a teenager whose life takes an unexpected turn. From the very first seconds of the film, Totone is portrayed as a carefree and reckless young man—but everything changes when a family tragedy forces him to take on new responsibilities.
One of Holy Cow’s greatest strengths lies in the subtle way it explores the emotional depth of the story and expresses the character’s grief through the everyday rhythms of rural life. Without a doubt, the countryside setting adds a layer of authenticity and natural beauty to the film—one that, far from being idealized, reveals the harsh and very real aspects of agricultural life.
In pursuit of a generous financial reward, the protagonist throws himself into learning how to make cheese. As he progresses in this mission, the viewer also witnesses his personal growth. In this way, Courvoisier draws a clear parallel between the challenge of producing the best Comté in the region and Totone’s meaningful journey into adulthood.
Director Louise Courvoisier grew up in the Jura region before studying film at the Cinéfabrique in Lyon. Her graduation short film, Mano a mano, won first prize at the Cinéfondation in Cannes in 2019.
Despite all the challenges and tensions that arise along the way, the film radiates a genuine warmth and tenderness—especially in the touching scenes shared with the protagonist’s little sister. These moments are, in many ways, the heart of the film and make it easy for the audience to deeply empathize with the character. Clément Faveau’s nuanced and convincing performance also plays a key role, aligning perfectly with the film’s understated tone.
It’s nearly impossible to resist the charm of a production that has it all: stunning cinematography, the perfect balance between humor and drama, and a unique sensitivity in its emotional storytelling. Audiences at D’A were lucky to experience a film that not only immersed them in a rustic, artisanal world but also offered a heartfelt lesson on the importance of family and friendship. In addition, the film excels at capturing the spontaneity, awkwardness, and sweetness of first love.
“It’s nearly impossible to resist the charm of a film that has it all: beautiful cinematography, the perfect balance between humor and drama, and a truly special sensitivity when it comes to portraying emotions.”
Shot with warm natural light, Louise Courvoisier’s debut feature offers a sincere and moving portrait of rural youth. Mundane, compassionate, cheeky, and revealing, Holy Cow feels like a breath of fresh air—and we absolutely love it.
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