The celebrated Dardenne brothers (Lorna's Silence, MIFF 2010) took the Grand Prix at Cannes (shared with Once Upon a Time in Anatolia) this year with this gripping cinematic tale of youthful innocence betrayed.

Critically acclaimed Belgian filmmakers Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, winners of two previous Palmes d'Or for Rosetta and The Child, are known for writing and directing uncompromising, socially aware dramas: spare, haunting stories about working-class lives in industrial Belgium.

In their latest work, the titular kid is 11-year-old Cyril (Thomas Doret), who is determined to reestablish contact with his absentee father and recover his bicycle, stubbornly ignoring the signs that he has been deliberately abandoned.

With this tremendously moving drama the Dardennes once again display their directorial flair and their impeccable casting choices; newcomer Doret is a marvel of contained confusion and rage, and the accomplished Cécile de France (Hereafter) shines as a kindly bystander drawn to help the boy.

D/S Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne P Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne, Denis Freyd S Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Luc Dardenne Dist Madman Entertainment L French w/English subtitles TD 35mm/2011