Adèle Haenel releases first book following legal victory

French actress and activist Adèle Haenel has released her first book, titled ‘Viser juste’ (Aiming True). The work, developed over three years with theater director Gisèle Vienne, is described as a hybrid literary project aimed at addressing the ‘wall of denial’ regarding sexual violence and the construction of silence.

Haenel, who stepped away from film sets three years ago, uses the book to explore her personal journey and the reclamation of dignity. The publication follows a significant legal victory in April, when director Christophe Ruggia was convicted on appeal for sexual assault against Haenel when she was between 12 and 14 years old.

The book also touches upon her decision to leave the film industry, including her high-profile departure from the César Awards in 2020 in protest of Roman Polanski. While Polanski is not named directly, he is described through his legal history regarding sexual relations with a minor.