Movie Review: The Intouchables

The award-winning French film, The Intouchables, tells the story of an unlikely friendship that develops between a wealthy quadriplegic and the unambitious man who he hires to be his caretaker. Though it was directed and produced in France, this cinematic masterpiece made its way across the Atlantic and found great success at the American box office, making it an international hit. Though it didn’t make billions, the film has garnered a committed fanbase, and as of last Saturday night, the three of us became part of that cult.After only three weeks in theaters, The Intouchables had already become the most viewed film in French history. Nominated for eight Cesar Awards, the national film award of France, and winner of Best Actor, this film was critically acclaimed in both its home country and in the US.The easygoing and lighthearted performances of Francois Cluzet, who plays Phillipe, the quadripeligic man, and Omar Sy, who plays Driss, his caretaker, complement each other perfectly, working in harmony with each other to create a movie that’ll give you that warm and fuzzy feeling inside. The Intouchables is perfect for those dark and rainy weekends such as this past weekend. Sy’s performance truly carries the film, and his strong yet relatable personality is what drives the act. Sy also does a fantastic job of portraying some extremely touching character development throughout the course of the film, despite the fact that the film’s events start by showing him as an arrogant, semi-selfish, insensitive, unemployed jerk. But, by the time the credits roll, the viewer is entirely enamored by Sy. As he becomes closer with Phillipe and their friendship develops, their personalities contrast in a way that Phillipe has never experienced. Phillipe, amused by Driss’ humor and youthful ways, learns to become a child at heart, and find enjoyment in his previously routine life. Elements of both characters rub off on each other, and Driss learns what it’s like to be depended on. By forming a relationship with a wealthy, old man, Driss experiences the lavish life, and even takes up painting.Behind every great movie lies a fitting soundtrack. With numerous performances from Turin native pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi, the soundtrack of The Intouchables both compels the viewer and sets the tone for the entire film. With a mix of classical, motown and soul, the soundtrack helps to emphasize the culture clash of the two main characters from two vastly different environments and backgrounds. And of course, like any movie soundtrack, the scoring of The Intouchables helps the viewer know what they should be feeling in a certain moment, but it does so in a subtly beautiful way, which feels neither overbearing nor forced.To put it in simple terms, we loved this movie. We loved the acting, we loved the soundtrack and we loved the incredible plot that made it what it was. Not to mention that it is a favorite of Ewald, and will be for many years to come. Although we say this for many movies, if you’re looking for a heart-warming but uplifting movie, before you watch anything else, watch The Intouchables. We guarantee that you won’t regret it.