Théodore Pellerin’s ‘Nino’ Explores Vulnerability Amid HPV-Related Cancer Diagnosis

Actor Théodore Pellerin portrays Nino, a Parisian man grappling with an HPV-related cancer diagnosis and the emotional fallout of his condition, in the French film Nino, directed by Pauline Loquès. The film, released in the UK on 19 June, follows Nino’s week-long isolation after his diagnosis, focusing on his struggles with intimacy, fertility, and self-expression.

What is ‘Nino’ About?

Nino centers on a young man’s physical and emotional journey after learning he has throat cancer linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). Pellerin’s character, Nino, must confront his fear of infertility and the stigma surrounding his diagnosis, which he describes as “a dissociation from the body” and a “stunted sexuality.” The film draws parallels to Agnès Varda’s 1962 classic Cléo de 5 à 7, which also follows a woman’s existential crisis after a cancer diagnosis, but with a modern, Gen Z perspective centered on themes of masturbation and self-acceptance.

How Has Pellerin’s Career Evolved?

Théodore Pellerin, 32, has built a career across French and English-language projects, including roles in Lurker (2022), a psychological thriller where he played a parasocial LA hipster, and Cry to Heaven (2023), a period drama directed by Tom Ford. His performance in Nino marks a shift toward more emotionally complex roles, with director Pauline Loquès noting his “ability to give life to silences” and his deep understanding of the script. Pellerin, who grew up in a creative family—his mother is a choreographer and his father a painter—began his career at 16 in the French TV series 30 Vies.

Why Is This Film Significant?

Nino addresses the intersection of health, identity, and social stigma, themes that resonate with broader conversations about HPV and cancer awareness. According to the World Health Organization, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with over 300,000 cervical cancer deaths annually. While the film is fictional, it highlights the emotional toll of such diagnoses, as Pellerin explains: “His mission is to speak and to ejaculate”—a metaphor for reclaiming agency amid medical vulnerability.

What Challenges Did Pellerin Face?

Pellerin’s portrayal of Nino required navigating sensitive scenes, including a pivotal masturbation sequence that director Loquès described as “a moment of liberation” rather than sexualization. Pellerin, who previously played a castrato music professor in Cry to Heaven, noted the challenge of balancing authenticity with the film’s artistic vision. “I never had the impression of having to force anything,” he said, emphasizing his research-driven approach to roles. Loquès added that Pellerin’s “disarming innocence” allowed him to embody the character’s fragility and resilience.

What’s Next for Pellerin?

Following Nino, Pellerin is set to star in an upcoming project directed by Ari Aster, though details remain undisclosed. His ability to transition between French and English roles—such as his work in Family First (2018) and On Becoming a God in Central Florida (2019)—has positioned him as a rising international star. As he prepares for his next role, Pellerin continues to explore themes of vulnerability, stating, “Being vulnerable is a full-time job.”