On February 27, 2025, the Franco-German channel Arte premiered the gripping mini-series Nismet, directed by Philippe Faucon. This four-episode series, which won the Best Series award at the Festival de La Rochelle, is based on the true story of Nismet Hrehorchuk, poignantly illustrated through the eyes of Emma Boulanouar, who plays the eponymous role. At just 16, Nismet navigates a world fraught with turmoil as she lives with her depressed mother, Najoua, and her violent stepfather, Denis.
Nismet opens with the stark realities of Nismet's life. Her mother, portrayed by Loubna Abidar, is unable to shield her from the harshness of their environment, allowing Denis’s abusive behavior to escalate. After Denis attempts to assault her, Nismet decides to flee, setting off on a tumultuous path of survival and self-discovery. The series paints her struggle as not just one of escaping physical danger, but of reclaiming her identity and discovering her inner strength.
For Hrehorchuk, the motivation to bring her story to the screen was deeply personal. "It was unacceptable for me for people to reduce me to 'the daughter of the murderer,'" she remarked, emphasizing her desire to communicate her full story. Hrehorchuk wrote to Faucon, wanting to portray her life not just as tragedy but as resilience and hope. "I’ve done a lot of therapy, but writing and seeing this story come to life on screen was another way of turning the page," she explained, reflecting on the therapeutic nature of her project.
Faucon, who has also directed the acclaimed Fatima, approaches the story with sensitivity and respect. He asserts, "When Nismet told me her story, I felt there was something beyond the tragedy of the events—her narrative speaks to the persistent domination over women and her will to assert herself against it." His depiction avoids gratuitous sentimentality, focusing instead on showcasing Nismet's determination to take control of her life.
One of the standout performances is from Boulanouar, who embodies Nismet with raw intensity, oscillated between strength and vulnerability. Critics have noted how Boulanouar, familiar to some viewers from the TF1 show Ici tout commence, delivers a nuanced portrayal of her character’s evolution, showcasing her struggle with both the past and the quest for independence. "It was important for me to have her validation. Because it’s her story, and we address the theme of violence against women, I felt a huge responsibility to live up to her expectations," she shared.
The atmosphere of Nismet is captured through tight, minimalistic scenes, which serve to amplify the emotional weight of each moment. Faucon’s directorial choices involve fixed shots and brief scenes which allow viewers to visualize the grim reality of child welfare systems and the untold stories behind personal trauma. Critics from various outlets have lauded the series for its refusal to glamorize the darker aspects of life but instead spotlight the courage and resilience inherent within Hrehorchuk’s experience.
Notably, Hrehorchuk also plays the role of Brigitte, the director of the care home where Nismet finds refuge. This added layer brings authenticity and depth to the narrative. "Brigitte is my mother of heart," she expressed, emphasizing the significance of portraying someone who played a pivotal role during her tumultuous teenage years. The seamless integration of Hrehorchuk's personal experience and Faucon's directorial vision culminates in a series rich with emotional depth and realism.
Through its storytelling, Nismet communicates powerful messages about resilience, the importance of seeking help, and finding one's voice. The series subtly urges viewers to reflect on the struggles of those who may feel trapped within oppressive circumstances. "It’s about speaking out, not staying down. You need to reach for help and never think you are alone—that's the message I hope resonates through the story," Hrehorchuk concluded.
With its launch, Nismet offers not just entertainment, but also serves as a rallying call for anyone facing adversity. The four episodes, each ranging from 35 to 42 minutes, are set to resonate with audiences, encouraging empathy and awareness around issues often kept hidden. Audiences can catch Nismet on Arte, with replays available on arte.tv, showcasing the unflinching portrayal of life through the lens of one courageous young woman striving to reclaim her future.