Party of Fools - Cover

Party of Fools

By Arnaud des Pallières

2024

Drama

1h51

memorizer logo

6.8/10

allociné logo

2.8/5

Press

2.8/5

Spect.

Synopsis

Paris, 1894. Who is Fanni, who claims to be voluntarily locked up in a women-only mental institution? Searching for her mother among the multitude of so-called 'madwomen', Fanni discovers a community of modern heroines who defy her expectations, along with the unexpected friendship of fellow patients. The sumptuous and renowned 'Party of Fools' of the asylum is in preparation. Politicians, artists, and socialites will flock to it. It’s her last hope of escaping the closing trap.

Community Reviews

Viewers find 'Le Bal des Folles' a compelling yet emotionally heavy film, highlighted by strong performances from its predominantly female cast. The movie's portrayal of the harrowing experiences of women in a 19th-century psychiatric hospital strikes a chord, though some feel the narrative lacks depth and fails to fully engage. The aesthetic choices and the depiction of the infamous ball add layers to the historical drama, making it a visually striking but sometimes challenging watch.

👍 Stellar performances by a talented cast.

👎 Some found the plot lacking depth.

Trailer

Reviews and Comments

1 reviews
Léa Meurette
Léarated ★ 7/10
November 24, 2025

Casting

Arnaud des Pallières

Arnaud des Pallières

Director

Mélanie Thierry

Mélanie Thierry

Fanni

Josiane Balasko

Josiane Balasko

Bobotte

Marina Foïs

Marina Foïs

La Douane

Yolande Moreau

Yolande Moreau

Camomille

Carole Bouquet

Carole Bouquet

Hersilie

Miss Ming

Miss Ming

Kenavo

Dominique Frot

Dominique Frot

Emilie

AG

Agnès Berthon

Flavienne

Lucie Zhang

Lucie Zhang

Amanite

Elina Löwensohn

Elina Löwensohn

Esther

Solène Rigot

Solène Rigot

Blanche

Paméla Ramos

Paméla Ramos

Ambroisine

Padrig Vion

Padrig Vion

Docteur Blanchet

List