English Mint

In the Shrines of Francophonia: Marguerite Duras' "English Mint"

Marguerite Duras (1914-1994) was a French writer, playwright, screenwriter, and director. Duras is best known to us as the author of the screenplay for "Hiroshima, Mon Amour" (director: Alain Resnais, 1959). She holds a prominent place in French literature, characterized by her unique literary style and narrative. She authored 34 novels. Her most notable work is considered to be the memoir "The Lover," which is acclaimed as her autobiographical literary masterpiece. Duras's contributions extend beyond screenplays to include novels ("The Sailor from Gibraltar," "The Lover"). She had her own image in literature, theater, cinema, and literary criticism.

This year marks the 110th anniversary of Marguerite Duras in France.

"English Mint"

Claire Lanne insists that the author of the murder of her stepmother Marie-Thérèse Bousquet is herself. However, this lady does not justify her action in any way. Three characters are involved: Claire Lanne herself, her stepson Pierre Lanne, and a third character whom Duras named "The Inquisitor." These dialogues, taking the form of an interview, reveal a whole life. Duras does not allow the listener-viewer to shape fundamental opinions and, furthermore, to justify this murder according to that opinion.

Cast: Alla Sahakyan, Stepan Ghambaryan, Hripsime Shahinyan

With the participation of: Hripsime Shahinyan

Translation by: Hripsime Shahinyan, Nune Gharyabyan