THE INTERSECTION

The Intersection examines the distinct yet intersecting trajectories of French-speaking
immigrants from both Canada and Francophone-African countries, as they converge in
Lewiston, Maine. Through a focus on the lives and friendship between Cecile, a French-
Canadian woman whose family came to the US to work in the local mills, part of an
immigrant wave beginning in the 1840s, and Trésor, a Congolese man seeking asylum
who is part of a recent wave of African immigrants, the film suggests the importance of
language for identity and community. Cecile and Trésor build a bond around their
common first language, French. After a lifetime of suppressing her French identity,
Cecile regains pride in her origins, while the common language offers Trésor a means
of building connections in his new home.
The filmmakers frame this story of friendship within a broader historical context,
encouraging viewers to reflect on the history of immigration in Maine since the first
European settlers arrived. In just over 30 minutes, the film manages to provide an
overview of immigrant experiences, including histories of discrimination and oppression
both past and present. This deeply American story touches on issues relevant to
communities around the country and is a great film for classes in sociolinguistics,
American history, immigration, Francophone studies and more.
“I strongly recommend this film to anyone seeking a better understanding of what
Francophonie means...” – Olivier Favry, Cultural Attaché, French Consulate in Boston
“The Intersection is a heart-warming film that shows the deep bond formed through the
bridge of a common language.” – Charlotte Cushman, educator