Released in cinemas on May 9, 2018, Monsieur Je-sais-tout is a drama-comedy directed by François Prévôt-Leygonie and Stephan Archinard, based on Alain Gillot's novel La Surface de réparation. Led by Arnaud Ducret, Max Baissette de Malglaive, and Alice David, the film explores the challenges of Asperger’s syndrome through an unexpected connection between a disoriented adult and an unconventional teenager. It will become available on Netflix starting March 14, 2026.
Vincent Barteau, a 35-year-old football coach known for his impulsive nature, finds his routine turned upside down with the arrival of his nephew Léo, 13, who has been diagnosed with Asperger’s autism and is passionate about chess. Forced to take him in, he must learn to navigate the teenager’s unique traits, where his strict sense of logic and sensitivity clash with Vincent’s own lifestyle.
At first tense, the coexistence gradually transforms into a relationship based on sharing and mutual understanding. Through sports, conversations, and everyday missteps, a bond forms between two solitary souls, each finding in the other an unexpected support to move forward.
This is the third feature film from the duo Prévôt-Leygonie / Archinard, following Sincere Friendships and Full Speed Ahead. Drawn to Alain Gillot's novel, the directors connected deeply with themes of lineage and transmission—core elements in their filmography. With the author's blessing, they shifted the story's setting from Eastern France to La Rochelle, opting for brighter light and open landscapes to better match the tone they aimed for in their adaptation.
Arnaud Ducret was the obvious choice to portray Vincent, a character who is both rough around the edges yet deeply endearing. Standing opposite him is Max Baissette de Malglaive, who was selected after a casting process overseen by director Martin Rougier. To prepare for his role, the young actor researched Asperger’s syndrome and met with someone living with the condition to ensure an authentic portrayal without resorting to stereotypes. The film aims to contribute to a more visible and nuanced representation of autism spectrum disorders within French cinema.
Blending comedy with heartfelt moments, the film takes an approachable tone to explore a topic that remains relatively rare in French cinema. The success lies in the chemistry between the lead characters and in depicting a mutual learning process, echoing stories across generations where embracing differences becomes a catalyst for change.
Monsieur Je-sais-tout
Film | 2018
Released in theaters: May 9, 2018
Available on Netflix from March 14, 2026
Comedy-drama | Duration: 1h39
Directed by François Prévôt-Leygonie and Stephan Archinard | Starring Arnaud Ducret, Max Baissette de Malglaive, Alice David
Original title: Monsieur Je-sais-tout
Country: France
Centered on the encounter between a football coach and an Asperger teenager, Monsieur Je-sais-tout offers a thoughtful and compassionate look at autism spectrum disorders, emphasizing human connection over clinical explanations.
For those looking to explore further, check out our curated list of Netflix's new releases for March, our guide to the latest streaming titles across all platforms, and today's top picks What to watch today in streaming.
