This drama of how a "little monster" struggles to find a place within society has a few strong scenes, and a hint of potential stardom for Paradot, whose character Malony rages for humanity as well as himself.

A smartly written, evenly wrought drama ...

It's a preening piece of work, aiming to flatter and please, while masquerading as something hard-hitting and daring. And because of all that, it's a bore.

Featuring a warm performance from the illustrious Catherine Deneuve, Standing Tall is Emmanuelle Bercot's most emotionally sincere film to date, though isn't too far removed from most standard social issue dramas.