Directed by Éric Besnard, already known for his warm-hearted films such as Délicieux, this comedy depicts an unlikely meeting between two men who have nothing in common. On one side, Vincent, an accomplished entrepreneur in a hurry, and on the other, Pierre, a simple, solitary man living in the middle of nowhere. The film is based on a dynamic duo of contrasts, played by two well-known faces in French cinema: Lambert Wilson and Grégory Gadebois, joined by Marie Gillain.
Les Choses simples will be broadcast on France 2 on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at .
Synopsis: Vincent is a successful entrepreneur. One day, a car breakdown on a mountain road temporarily interrupts his frantic race. Pierre, who lives away from the modern world in the midst of sublime nature, comes to his aid and offers him hospitality. The meeting between these two men, who have nothing in common, overturns their respective certainties. And they find themselves laughing. But are they really living the lives they want to live?
Les Choses simples highlights the encounter between two worldviews, between hectic modernity and the search for meaning in a return to nature. Through humor and the budding complicity between the two protagonists, the film raises questions about contemporary values, the mental burden of success and reconnecting with oneself. A theme increasingly present in French cinema, in the tradition of films such as Un homme heureux and Normandie nue.
This comedy is aimed primarily at fans of feel-good films and introspective tales with philosophical overtones. Those who enjoyed Le Goût des merveilles or Le Sens de la fête may find the same mix of tender humor and existential reflection. Audiences in search of lightness, but sensitive to the question of modern lifestyle, should feel concerned. On the other hand, fans of slapstick or fast-paced comedies may find this proposal a little contemplative.
With its mountain backdrop, contrasting characters and invitation to slow down, Les Choses simples is a gentle, human comedy featuring two of French cinema's leading actors. It's a film that seems designed to make you smile and think at the same time, through a story of unlikely friendship and inner transformation.
Our review of Les Choses Simples:
One is rich, philanthropic and successful, but lacks the main thing: happiness. The other is gruff, quiet and rustic, but would prefer to be able to open up to the woman he loves. Their meeting will initially be full of lies and bitterness, but in a dreamy countryside setting, Vincent (Lambert Wilson) and Pierre (Grégory Gadebois) will get to know each other and appreciate what the other has to offer. The film's pitch may sound clichéd, but it's only the beginning that is. A twist arrives fairly quickly in the script that reshuffles the cards.
You might expect yet another film about a city-dweller who learns to appreciate life anew by moving to the countryside, but not at all. The film's plot is not what you'd expect, and instead becomes a beautiful plea to live one's dreams and give oneself the means to achieve them. The result is a lovely film full of good feelings, and its emotion is quite effective! Lambert Wilson and Grégory Gadebois have a lot to do with it. Both actors are delightful and take great pleasure in playing their characters, and it shows. Their chemistry is palpable and delights the viewer.
However, it should be borne in mind that Les Choses Simples is a film more suited to an older audience, and may not be suitable for the whole family, or even the youngest.
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