Godeau doesn't seem all that bothered with character motivations and backstories.

Their romance is based on a true story that occurred in a Versailles detention center in 2011, yet it rings false because the actors lack chemistry and their individual narratives are nebulous.

Exarchopoulos has natural charisma, but her character is bland because of this film's outright refusal to talk about her backstory.

While Exarchopoulos's character is adolescently unfocused, the actress herself is naturally compelling.