Intouchables (2011)
The Intouchables / Untouchable
Raiting: 
8,5 /10
Genre: Comedy
Director: Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano
Stars: François Cluzet, Omar Sy and Anne Le Ny
Country: France
Release date: 2 November 2011
Length: 112 minutes
"Intouchables," directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, is a heartwarming French film released in 2011 that tells the story of an unlikely friendship between two men from vastly different backgrounds. Based on a true story, the film explores themes of friendship, trust, and the breaking down of societal barriers.
The movie begins with Driss, a young man from the projects, applying for a job as a live-in carer just to get a signature proving he was seeking employment to continue receiving welfare benefits. He is hired on a trial basis to take care of Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat who has become a quadriplegic after a paragliding accident. Philippe is charmed by Driss's blunt manner and lack of pity for his condition, which is a stark contrast to how others treat him.
Initially, Driss has no intention of taking the job seriously and is clueless about how to perform many of the caregiving tasks. However, as time passes, a strong bond forms between the two men. Driss brings a breath of fresh air into Philippe's life, introducing him to the joys of earthly pleasures like fast cars, good music, and flirting. In turn, Philippe exposes Driss to the world of art, opera, and fine dining, broadening his horizons and deepening his appreciation for life's finer aspects.
Their friendship transforms both their lives. Driss learns responsibility and begins to see the potential for a life beyond the confines of his neighborhood. Philippe, on the other hand, finds a renewed zest for life and the courage to pursue a romantic relationship, something he had given up on since his accident. The film is filled with moments of humor, warmth, and genuine connection that transcend the barriers of class, race, and physical ability.
The film culminates in a testament to the power of human connection and the idea that true friendship can flourish under the most unlikely circumstances. Driss and Philippe's relationship proves that empathy and shared experiences are the real forces that can unite people, regardless of their backgrounds.
"Intouchables" is a poignant, uplifting film that challenges viewers' perceptions of disability and social status while delivering a powerful message about the importance of companionship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the ability of friendship to change lives.
Top cast - Intouchables (2011)
Trailer - Intouchables (2011)
"Intouchables," directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, is a film that captures the essence of human connection in its most unvarnished and sincere form. This French cinematic gem, released in 2011, has managed to charm audiences worldwide with its heartfelt narrative and impeccable comedic timing. It's a story that could easily have veered into the realm of cliché but instead delivers an honest and uplifting portrayal of an unlikely friendship.
The chemistry between the leads, François Cluzet as Philippe and Omar Sy as Driss, is the driving force of the movie. Sy's performance, in particular, is a standout, offering a blend of irreverence and warmth that earned him a César Award for Best Actor. The dynamic between the characters is electric, and the genuine respect and affection they develop for each other are both believable and deeply moving. The film avoids the trap of becoming overly sentimental, thanks in large part to its sharp wit and the actors' nuanced performances.
Visually, "Intouchables" is both stylish and functional, using the opulent backdrop of Philippe's world to contrast with Driss's life in the Parisian projects. This visual dichotomy serves as a constant reminder of the different worlds from which these two men hail, yet the film is careful to never let their environments define them. The directors masterfully use the backdrop of Paris as a canvas to paint the evolving relationship, with moments of pure joy like paragliding sequences and the vibrant city life that Driss introduces to Philippe.
The soundtrack of the film deserves special mention as it beautifully complements the narrative. From the use of Vivaldi's classical pieces to the soulful tracks of Earth, Wind & Fire, the music choices in "Intouchables" are both eclectic and perfectly matched to the film's tone. They underscore the emotional beats of the story and enhance the overall experience without ever overshadowing the action on screen.
What truly sets "Intouchables" apart is its ability to tackle serious themes such as disability and social disparity with humor and grace. The film doesn't ignore the challenges faced by the characters, but it chooses to focus on their capabilities and the joy they find in each other's company. It's a celebration of life and the message that, no matter our circumstances, we all have something valuable to offer one another.
In conclusion, "Intouchables" is a film that resonates with a sense of humanity and joy. Its success lies in its simplicity and the universal appeal of its central narrative: the transformative power of friendship. Nakache and Toledano have crafted a movie that is both a crowd-pleaser and a thoughtful reflection on what it means to truly live. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most profound connections come from the most unexpected places.