The Intouchables - 4 smiles

Already a huge hit in Europe, “The Intouchables” has warmth, humor and an understated sweetness that will catch you unawares. Written and directed by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, it’s the factual story of an unconventional relationship between a wealthy quadriplegic from the ritziest neighborhood in Paris and his Senegalese caregiver from the ghetto. Their bond begins as a working one, but builds, through trust and care and shared experiences, into a lasting friendship that changes two unhappy lives. This is definitely a feel-good story and what makes it so entertaining is the powerfully appealing chemistry of odd couple Francois Cluzet (who looks like a French Dustin Hoffman) and Omar Sy (who won the French Oscar for this role last year), a strappingly handsome and charismatic actor.

The daily care (washing, changing, massaging, shaving, cleaning, spoon-feeding, lifting) of a paralyzed patient are so daunting that Philippe Pozzo di Borgo (played with heartbreaking honesty by Cluzet) is always interviewing new job applicants. Many apply, but there’s something intriguing, irritating and challenging about Driss (Sy) that rouses Philippe’s curiosity. The man’s rebellious spirit, irreverent attitude and lack of pity are refreshing. Driss hates the job at first, refusing to change Philippe’s diapers, insulting his taste in music and generally marking time until he can go back on welfare. Nonetheless, the two men overcome their differences and learn to help each other.  Driss exerts an influence that heals some of his boss’s emotional pain such as teaching Philippe how to smoke a joint while making him listen to Earth, Wind and Fire or acting as a makeshift therapist to Philippe’s neurotic teenage daughter. Or helping Philippe overcome his reluctance to schedule a face-to-face meeting with a woman he’s been writing to. Philippe, in turn, teaches his uneducated caregiver to appreciate Vivaldi and passes him off to the pretentious art world as an important new painter whose work is worthy of a pricey investment. Since Philippe was paralyzed from the neck down from a paragliding accident, you can’t help but feel the terror and the ultimate thrill of their friendship when they share a paragliding excursion. Driss learns compassion and responsibility while Philippe gains courage to take control of his own life. “The Intouchables” is a charming buddy comedy that you’re sure to enjoy. Be sure to see it. Subtitles. 6/3/12