(Don Bosco International Media Academy, Paris) – In a dehumanized world that often dismisses the voices of the marginalized, what happens when an unexpected connection reveals our shared resilience? Joan Marshal’s poignant student short film, PROPRE, dares to explore this, reminding us that true change begins with empathy. This emotional drama, a graduation project from the Paris film school, Don Bosco International Media Academy, captures the quiet power of ordinary people in extraordinary moments, dedicated “to those who dare to remain human in a dehumanized world.”
“Have you ever answered the wrong call—only to change a life?” poses the film’s evocative logline. Set in real time within a suicide prevention helpline office, PROPRE follows Mary, a 45-year-old African sanitation worker brought to life with profound authenticity by Margeaux Lampley. During her evening cleaning shift, under the condescending gaze of office manager Jean Michel (Geoffroy Lickel), Mary hesitantly answers a persistent call. On the line is Martha (voiced by Viviane Bossina), a young woman overwhelmed by isolation, discrimination, and an unwanted pregnancy. Through heartfelt listening and gentle encouragement, Mary becomes an unlikely beacon of hope, challenging Martha to reclaim her dignity and fight for justice. The encounter culminates in a stirring affirmation: “Sorry, we can never be you. But we don’t have to be. Being us is more than enough.” As Mary leaves the now-spotless office—a metaphor for the clarity she imparts—the film underscores the transformative strength found in society’s overlooked corners.
Directed, and written by emerging talent Joan Marshal, PROPRE is a testament to cinema’s role in fostering humanism. “I believe cinema is the most powerful medium of communication,” Marshal states. “Through this film, I aim to amplify the unheard voices of the working class—voices that are often silenced, hidden, and ignored. With this project, I confront the indifference surrounding these silent cries, urging viewers to acknowledge and empathize with the struggles of those unseen yet indispensable. This is more than a film for me—it’s a call to action, a reflection of the values I hold close, and a reminder that change begins with awareness.”
As a student project produced by DBIMA Productions in Paris, PROPRE marks Marshal’s bold step toward mainstream filmmaking opportunities. Shot in 6K high resolution at DBIMA Studio, the 13-minute emotional drama features digital sound 5.1, a 2:35.1 aspect ratio, and is presented in French with English subtitles. It premiered privately at a film school graduation screening at 7 Cinemas Montparnasse in Paris and has been submitted to La Cinéf at the Cannes Film Festival 2026, preserving its world premiere status by not entering other festivals yet.
Building on Marshal’s acclaimed track record, PROPRE follows his previous shorts Face Under the Face—a silent depiction of a refugee’s day in Paris—and SAY NO!, a child’s plea against war. These earlier works have garnered over 30 international festival selections and awards, including wins at the Gliff Film Festival, Portland Short Filmmaker Festival, and Berlin Indie Film Festival, establishing Marshal as a rising voice in social storytelling.
Early audiences who attended the private screening have shared glowing feedback on IMDb, praising the film’s raw emotional depth and honest portrayal of immigrant struggles. One viewer called it “intense, gripping, honest,” noting how it “gets under your skin” with its unflinching look at “invisibility, condescension, and quiet endurance.” Another highlighted the “strong and heartfelt performance” of the lead and the sensitive depiction of Black sanitation workers’ realities, while a third admitted it “made me cry a bit and taught me to stand firm,” lauding the polished visuals and evocative “vibe.” These responses affirm PROPRE’s ability to evoke profound reflection on dignity and empathy.
Currently not available on public platforms to maintain festival eligibility, PROPRE invites film reviewers, critics, and industry professionals to request private screening links for viewing and critique. Search for PROPRE on IMDb today to read these heartfelt reviews, follow @propre_joanmarshal on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates and festival news, and experience the film yourself—feel the shift it ignites in your understanding of humanity. In a time of division, PROPRE calls us to listen, connect, and recognize the strength in every voice.
For screeners, interviews, or more information, contact:
Joan Marshal
DBIMA Productions
Email: p.joan@dbi-ecademy.fr
Phone: +33 (0)744833584
Instagram: @propre_joanmarshal
IMDb: Search “PROPRE Joan Marshal”
Check out the PROPRE Kit
About DBIMA Productions: A Paris-based production house dedicated to innovative storytelling that promotes social awareness and human resilience.