SYNOPSIS: This is a romantic comedy set in Paris about a family that goes there because of business, and two young people who are engaged to be married in the fall have experiences there that change their lives. It's about a young man's great love for a city, Paris, and the illusion people have that a life different from theirs would be much better. It stars Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard, Kathy Bates, Carla Bruni among others.

REVIEW: There are certain cities that lend themselves as perfect backdrops for movies. New York City, for example, is one of them and Paris is undoubtedly another. I can’t recall any other movie that gives such a complete tour of Paris in all her glory. She is the real star of this movie and her performance was superb. Priscilla would have fainted. Neither of us has been there yet but I did make her a promise to take her someday. Watching this film just heightened the desire. But wait, there’s a movie to talk about here too. What a combination! A clever and charming Woody Allen comedy in a Parisian setting is a recipe for an entertaining treat. The story and its presentation are simple but meaningful and deep. Can you imagine if what happens in the movie could actually happen? You’ll know what I mean when you see it if you don’t already know. It’s a feature that takes this film up a notch. And then there’s the cast. Can you think of anyone in the current world of cinema that better personifies Paris, France better than Marion Cotillard? She has a supporting role but I just have to start with her. She was perfectly cast for this film. Another supporting role that stands out was done by Corey Stoll. He nailed his character and added some good humor. Adrien Brody has a small role but leaves quite a comical impact too. As far as the stars of the show go, they all did pretty good. Owen Wilson as Gil takes the lead and he carries the movie well and keeps it smooth throughout even though his job is made easier by the excellent script and story. Rachel McAdams who plays Gil’s fiancée Inez started her role as sweet and ended up being scary; an interesting transition for her. The most annoying character was played by Michael Sheen; an intrusive, stubborn, show off know-it-all that rubs Gil the wrong way and Inez the right way. This makes for a triangular conflict.

This movie oozes Woody Allen and it is good to see that he hasn’t lost his touch. The dialogue is sharp, intelligent, funny, and Woody-style. He wrote as well as directed this film and did a masterful job. The Paris theme gives a head start for the cinematographers to present a visual feast. Even the music selections added tremendously to the overall feel of the movie. They were very appropriate. Overall the movie was fun to watch and not your typical rom-com at all thanks to a not so typical storyline. In the midst of the summer blockbusters, this is a nice change of pace.

Review By Cine Marcos 
cinemarcos@smartcine.com