Last Updated on 17 October 2025 by frenchflicks
Wild Diamond (Diamant Brut) is a blistering debut from director Agathe Riedinger that shines a spotlight on the cult of celebrity in the age of TikTok.
Premiering in the U.S. this July, this Cannes-acclaimed drama introduces a magnetic new talent and a dazzling, disillusioned view of Gen Z ambition. A raw French coming-of-age-story.
What is Wild Diamond about?
Set under the blazing sun of Fréjus, in the South of France, Wild Diamond follows 19-year-old Liane (electrifying newcomer Malou Khebizi), a young woman obsessed with beauty, fame, and being “somebody.” Living with her mother and younger sister in a modest home, Liane dreams of escaping her life by landing a spot on a reality TV show called Miracle Island. As she chases fame, she discovers that the path to stardom is not paved with glitter, but with heartbreak and illusion.
Alongside Khebizi’s tour-de-force performance are Idir Azougli (Shéhérazade), Andréa Bescond (Little Tickles), Ashley Romano, and César winner Alexis Manenti (Les Misérables). With her debut, Riedinger crafts a visceral portrait of a young woman at war with herself and the world.
What Did Critics Think of Wild Diamond?
Critics on both sides of the Atlantic praised the film’s raw energy and sharp commentary on fame culture:
- Slant Magazine noted that Wild Diamond “is at its best when it matches the frantic, expressive energy of its lead character.” (Slant review)
- The Guardian called it “a French social-realist drama fueled by TikTok energy.” (Guardian review)
- Collider praised the film’s relevance: “This year has given us many movies that allow young women into complex character studies usually reserved for men or older characters, and Wild Diamond is easily one of the best.” (Collider review)
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a solid 81% score, with special praise for Khebizi’s fearless breakout performance.
Why You Should See Wild Diamond
If you’re drawn to provocative character studies like Andrea Arnold’s Fish Tank or the feverish world of Euphoria, Wild Diamond is your next must-see. It’s a coming-of-age tale that doesn’t sugarcoat the costs of craving visibility in a hyper-connected world. Riedinger’s debut marks her as a bold new voice in French cinema, and Malou Khebizi is an undeniable star on the rise.
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