Bahia Benmahmoud, an outgoing young woman, holds a high view of political commitment, as she does not hesitate to sleep with her enemies to convert them to her cause โ which could mean a lot of people since essentially, everyone on the right is her enemy. But everything becomes complicated when she meets Arthur Martin, a puritan and a Jospinist.
Nice Premium talks to you about this little cinematic gem.
A Political Comedy
Can subjects as sensitive as national identity, origins, and racism be dealt with humor and relevance?
This is the challenge taken on by Michel Leclerc, who signs here his second fresh and original film. The director succeeds in presenting current societal problems, particularly the question of our identity, in an offbeat and humorous manner.
The inventive screenplay is full of sharp and hilarious lines: “To convince a member of the National Front, it takes ten days. If it’s a Bayrou supporter, an afternoon.” (Sara Forestier) “A Jospinist today is as rare as a mandarin duck on the รle de Rรฉ.” (Lionel Jospin)
The film’s strength lies in this striking contrast between comedy and serious subject matter, and in its incisive reflection on the meaning of political commitment.
Very Convincing Actors
The actors are all remarkably natural and refreshing in this comedy. The Gamblin-Forestier duo works wonderfully. A duo, indeed improbable but credible and very touching.
Sara Forestier is explosive as a wild young girl, Jacques Gamblin is convincing as a convinced and uptight Jospinist, and Lionel Jospin in the flesh makes a guest appearance, daring to poke fun at himself.
Finally, a French director who manages to reconcile comedy and engaged cinema.
A film that will not fail to surprise you. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
