A chicken heist, two shady uncles, and a kid who knows when to shut up.
A young boy commits a simple act of theft that sends his quiet town into a frenzy over the course of one unforgettable summer. Eleven year old Petit Jean has two uncles: His kindly Uncle Arthur is a good neighbor and law-abiding citizen, but Arthur's brother Andre is a notorious thief. When Andre is arrested for stealing chickens, he denies any wrongdoing yet winds up in jail regardless - the unfortunate victim of his own his bad reputation. Meanwhile, on the outside, the townspeople remain split over the decision to pin the crime on Andre despite the notable lack of evidence. Little do they realize that Jean Petite is the real thief, because he's not talking.
Acting
Henri Guybet's wounded thief eyes will wreck you.
Writing
Tight 90-minute farce that trusts your intelligence.
Director
Serge Pénard
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Serge Pénard was primarily a TV director; this rare theatrical feature sat shelved for two years before quiet release.
The 'braconne' title refers to poaching—a crime French cinema loves to romanticize, from Renoir to Pagnol's Marseille.
No ratings yet
Sign in to join the discussion — comments are spoiler-gated to your watch progress.
Discussion starters
FR
