The Story of Adele H. is a historical drama film released in 1975, directed by François Truffaut and based on the true story of Adèle Hugo, the second daughter of Victor Hugo. The film stars Isabelle Adjani in the title role, along with Bruce Robinson as Albert Pinson.
The movie portrays Adèle as a deeply disturbed young woman who becomes fixated on Albert after having a brief affair with him in England. She follows him to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he is stationed as a soldier. Despite rejecting her affections, Adèle remains resolute in her pursuit of Albert, even taking on a false identity to be close to him.
As Albert's assignment takes him to the Caribbean, Adèle follows him there, despite experiencing numerous health problems and financial difficulties. Her obsession soon becomes a dangerous and self-destructive obsession that threatens to destroy her life.
Throughout the movie, Truffaut examines the themes of love, obsession, and mental illness. He portrays Adèle as a tragic figure who is consumed by her own obsession, despite being betrayed by the object of her affection.
The Story of Adele H. was nominated for multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It has since become a classic of French cinema and a definitive portrayal of a troubled young woman's descent into madness.
