I'm always pleased when I come across something that
surprises me and makes me smile out of the blue. The only sad part about the
movie I'm writing about this week is that it's a French film. Why is that sad?
Because there are far too many people in this world who won't take the chance,
won't take the time and won't pay attention to what they're watching enough to
see this film. Once they learn they'll have to read subtitles they'll pass it
by. The sad thing is in doing so they'll miss one of the best movies of this
past year. So take a chance, please.
THE INTOUCHABLES is the story of Driss (Omar Sy), a young
black man recently released from jail and living in the low income housing area
of Paris. The story opens with Driss seemingly applying for a job taking care
of a wealthy quadriplegic man named Phillipe (Francois Cluzet). Phillipe is
bored with each applicant and known for being a task master. When Driss comes
in just asking them to sign his welfare papers so he can collect, Phillipe tells
him to come back the next day.
Driss returns home to have his mother ask him to leave
because of his past. With several brothers and sisters, he does so in the hopes
of helping them. The next morning he returns to Phillipe's home and is told
he's being hired temporarily to see if he works out. Most of the staff doesn't
think he'll make it. But Phillipe see's something in him that the rest don't.
More than that he knows Driss will offer him more honesty and straight
forwardness than the rest of the staff.
Driss is amazed at his living conditions first. It's the
first time he's had a room of his own let alone a custom bathroom for his own
use. As Driss goes about his first day, he does indeed offer no ounce of
sympathy for Phillipe and talks to him like any other person he would me.
Phillipe finds this incredibly refreshing and actually finds something to smile
about in the presence of Driss. Driss begins to learn Phillipe's daily routine
and how things work around the house.
As the days go by the pair become not only employer and
employee but friends as well. Both try to educate the other about the
differences that they have. Where Phillipe attempts to expose Driss to opera
and classical music, Driss tunes Phillipe into groups like Earth Wind &
Fire. They come from different worlds but they find enjoyment in each other's
company.
One of the tasks that Phillipe does each week is to write a
letter to a lady pen pal he's been wooing for the past 6 months. Filled with
expressions of romance Driss can't believe he's not tried to meet her and sets
about doing so by calling her and then passing the phone to Phillipe. A meeting
is scheduled but no one knows for sure what will happen.
The same is true of Driss' past catching up to him.
Concerned about his family and the chance that his brother may turn up like him
he keeps an eye on them from the sidelines and eventually must make a decision
just who needs help more, his brother or Phillipe.
Through it all the Driss and Phillipe share small adventures
that show both have a sense of wonder still and a love of life. Though confined
to his wheelchair and unable to move anything but his head and neck, Phillipe
learns to smile and laugh again.
There is a certain joy about this film that rubs off after
viewing it. You'll find yourself literally laughing out loud at moments. I know
I did. Best of all will be the life affirming knowledge that the film was based
on a true story. What became of the pair is revealed just before the credits.
Acting is something that transcends language. The facial
expressions and moves of an actor in film show that it is a visual art form
rather than just the sounds made vocally. Yes, the things they say in this film
will make you laugh but coupled with the actions both actors offer great
performances here.
Nominated around the world for awards it's sad that it
wasn't nominated for best foreign picture at this year's Academy Awards. It
should have won hands down. So don't be afraid to try something different.
Don't let the fact that this film is French scare you away. Take a moment and
enjoy the story and laugh at all it has to offer. Easily one of the best films
I've seen this past year.
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