Summary - Very Good 3.5

An engaging and influential foreign language film about a young woman named Amelie (Audrey Tautou) who finds a long-hidden toy box. After finding that returning the toy box to it’s now owner, now elderly, leaves her feeling fulfilled, prompting her to do other random acts of kindness. Sadly, while possessing an innocent heart, she is childlike in her interaction with other adults, a byproduct of a dysfunctional upbringing. This inability to relate to other adults inhibits her chances of finding love.

The movie was nominated for five Oscars, and has had a considerable influence on subsequent movies and television shows. The well-known traveling gnome bit featured in Travelocity commercials is a direct spin-off of this film. Producers of the TV show Pushing Daisies credited this movie as being inspirational in his show.

This quirky film is told in a childlike fashion, including narration that is almost like that found in a children’s book. Amelie’s stunted emotional growth becomes the impetus for her imaginative ways of interacting with others in her life, including a well-thought out method of leading a love interest to her place of work. The use of occasional high-speed action, with comical angels and facial expressions adds to this mischievous story.

That being said, the movie is not for everyone. While childlike in nature, younger kids would not fully appreciate the emotional problems Amelie has, nor would they appreciate the implied sex scenes (moaning and shadows). In addition, the film is in French, with English subtitles, which certainly could be dissuading to those who don’t like to “read” their movies.

But, if you’re open to trying influential foreign films, I would suggest it. You might find it as rewarding as I did.

Watched on Netflix streaming.

Acting - Great 4.0

Tautou captures the youthful energy and sense of exploration with her innocent facial expressions. Very well done.

Film - Very Good 3.5

Very imaginative use of cameras to help present the information with th eenergy of a child.

Edge - Risqué 1.8

Sex, audible orgasms, and one character works in an adult bookstore with an exotic dancer.

Reality - Glib 1.6

I would use the term whimsical, rather than fake, for parts of this film.

1 Comment

• Wick Mar 12, 2011 9:49AM

  Regarding BigdaddyDave’s Review
  Fascinating review Dave, especially about the traveling gnome and other spin-offs.

  I missed Amelie when it came out. Got it on my Gotta VuList now though.

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