Absolutey hilarious!
Annie (Sabine Azéma) and Francois (André Dussollier) have been married for 50 years and they are still deeply in love. Together they have built a beautiful life with three somewhat-happy yet all very different kids. Francois served much of his life in the military as an army general, causing him to miss much of his family’s lives. Alas, he is proud of his time in the military and doesn’t miss a chance to talk about it, he is so aloof to his family’s needs and lives because he has centred his glory days in theirs. In his mind, their lives are flawless and without any speed bumps.
But then he discovers that, 40 years ago while he was serving, Annie had an affair with their close friend Boris and the only way to make things right is to divorce her and beat him up. Annie insists on joining him on his journey to revenge, telling him it might be their last hooray. Francois agrees, reluctantly and together they travel to Nice to hunt down Boris.
This movie is so damn funny and tender. I definitely oscillated between belly laughs and tears. Annie as the all-too-liberal wife in the face of Francois’s rage and betrayal keeps things light and realistic. She even goes as far as to tell him that she assumed he had an affair or two as well. (In fact, she even hoped a little that he did.) She is realistic and understands they come from a different time where tradition often made life too rigid. But Francois is a man of honour and code and he is offended that she would want such a thing for him. His code is so rigid that, while he was trying to be a stand-up father and husband, he failed to see how he was neglecting his family’s emotional needs. His kids love him but feel disconnected from him. They fear they will disappoint him and keep secrets to nurse their relationship with Francois, remaining steady, even if that means they suffer.
It isn’t the most original concept, but it is still fun to watch and has a nice message. I particularly loved the scene with Boris (Thierry Lhermitte), Annie’s former, free-spirited lover. Even Francois can’t stay totally mad at him because he’s so charming and welcoming. Do not skip this one. It’s a treat to watch, and you will not be disappointed.
Riviera Revenge (N’avoue Jamais) is playing at Cinéfranco now.
