Priceless - A review
April 6th 2007 08:41
Last night my cinema trip was a test of fate. I toddled up the road with a friend and thought whichever film was on at the time we arrived, then we would see that one.
The decision was Priceless starring Audrey Tautou or Tatty as I tend to call her. I'd describe the film as a light-weight jaunt through a world I wouldn't want to live in. Director Salvadori's latest work, Priceless, is set in the luxury hotels along the French Riviera. Irene (Audrey Tautou) excels at being kept. She’s the mistress of wealthy older men, getting jewels and designer clothes in the hope of a long term commitment. She wants the life of majestic hotels, champagne and lavish food. Taking time out one night from her older lover and meal-ticket, she has an encounter with Jean (Gad Elmaleh), a put-upon hotel bartender. Her older man discovers her indiscretion and throws her out. She then turns to Jean to get her out of her mess, assuming he has money. She steals his credit card without any scruples, buying so many expensive clothes that he runs out of money. They part ways...but of course we know that's not where their meeting will end.
Irene and Jean reconnect in the South of France, she wants nothing to do with Jean, seeing him as being a moneyless loser. He recoups some of his money by becoming wealthy widow Madeleine's, (Marie Christine Adam), who thinks he’s a gigolo.
There were points in the film where the coincidences just seemed too implausible to bear, so I reassured myself this was a film not real life, it didn't have to be true.
The film continues as a relay of relationships where they scheme scrupulouslessly to get what they need from various partners. While they continue to deceive the people who are bountiful to them they are becoming increasingly attracted to one another.
According to Salvador, 'It's really a film about survival. Irene's life is precarious - when she finds herself by a hotel pool without a room or clothes she really is naked. Her life is fragile. I wanted people to understand that, yet enjoy the movie.' He continues, 'People were doubtful that Audrey could play a sexy character who lived like that,' says Salvadori, whose casting decision was greeted with scorn in his homeland. 'Yet I wrote the part for her. Benoit (screenwriter) and I had a picture of Audrey up on the wall while we were writing. The character isn't sympathetic, she's tough. I needed an actress with something different so that she could save the part.'
Tatou is indeed excellent in this role. Her performance was far superior than in The Da Vinci Code and Dirty Pretty Things (excellent film, I just thought she was weak in her role). In Priceless she used more than only her large striking eyeballs which she seemed to rely on in Amelie (I also liked this film, but became a bit tired of so many eye shots). She is sexy, sultry and unscrupulous. Strangely, she seems much thinner than in any of her other roles, but of course that has nothing to do with her performance, rather just an observation on my part.
This is an occasional chuckle film, a skip in the park with elements of narcissism that is hard to digest at times. It is fluffy, definitely French and frivolous, much like the characters. Taken lightly, it's fun. Taken seriously, it's silly.
The decision was Priceless starring Audrey Tautou or Tatty as I tend to call her. I'd describe the film as a light-weight jaunt through a world I wouldn't want to live in. Director Salvadori's latest work, Priceless, is set in the luxury hotels along the French Riviera. Irene (Audrey Tautou) excels at being kept. She’s the mistress of wealthy older men, getting jewels and designer clothes in the hope of a long term commitment. She wants the life of majestic hotels, champagne and lavish food. Taking time out one night from her older lover and meal-ticket, she has an encounter with Jean (Gad Elmaleh), a put-upon hotel bartender. Her older man discovers her indiscretion and throws her out. She then turns to Jean to get her out of her mess, assuming he has money. She steals his credit card without any scruples, buying so many expensive clothes that he runs out of money. They part ways...but of course we know that's not where their meeting will end.
Irene and Jean reconnect in the South of France, she wants nothing to do with Jean, seeing him as being a moneyless loser. He recoups some of his money by becoming wealthy widow Madeleine's, (Marie Christine Adam), who thinks he’s a gigolo.
There were points in the film where the coincidences just seemed too implausible to bear, so I reassured myself this was a film not real life, it didn't have to be true.
The film continues as a relay of relationships where they scheme scrupulouslessly to get what they need from various partners. While they continue to deceive the people who are bountiful to them they are becoming increasingly attracted to one another.
According to Salvador, 'It's really a film about survival. Irene's life is precarious - when she finds herself by a hotel pool without a room or clothes she really is naked. Her life is fragile. I wanted people to understand that, yet enjoy the movie.' He continues, 'People were doubtful that Audrey could play a sexy character who lived like that,' says Salvadori, whose casting decision was greeted with scorn in his homeland. 'Yet I wrote the part for her. Benoit (screenwriter) and I had a picture of Audrey up on the wall while we were writing. The character isn't sympathetic, she's tough. I needed an actress with something different so that she could save the part.'
Tatou is indeed excellent in this role. Her performance was far superior than in The Da Vinci Code and Dirty Pretty Things (excellent film, I just thought she was weak in her role). In Priceless she used more than only her large striking eyeballs which she seemed to rely on in Amelie (I also liked this film, but became a bit tired of so many eye shots). She is sexy, sultry and unscrupulous. Strangely, she seems much thinner than in any of her other roles, but of course that has nothing to do with her performance, rather just an observation on my part.
This is an occasional chuckle film, a skip in the park with elements of narcissism that is hard to digest at times. It is fluffy, definitely French and frivolous, much like the characters. Taken lightly, it's fun. Taken seriously, it's silly.
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Comment by Ash
Australian Traveller
Flashes of memories
Another one for a lazy Sunday afternoon perhaps? I miss watching French films.... I still cannot remember the ones that I watched at school... just have the memory of enjoying them.
The French Riviera is certainly another world... on the drive to Monte Carlo through the mountains you look down at the yatchs floating in sea that looks like it has been coloured it is so blue... Monte Carlo Casino, granted it`s in Monacco...it just seems too much to be true, like you say... but you can imagine the lifetsyles that these people have... the high rollers in the Casino? to think nothing of putting down PILES of chips worth hundred of thousands of Euro`s at a time... the cars parked outside were probably worth more than I would ever make in a lifetime! They can keep it... their arrogance is probably worth every penny to them... and is the exact reason why I can go without it!
thanks for the trip down memory lane Tracy
ash
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
I totally agree with your statement: 'They can keep it... their arrogance is probably worth every penny to them... and is the exact reason why I can go without it!'
This film was a bit like that, funny yet there is definitely a lifestyle like that which I abhor. It reminded me of the pageant life shown in Little Miss Sunshine, so distateful.
Yes, I think this is another lazy DVD afternoon one, it's light-hearted and humorous but not one that I would rush to the cinema and see. Although, Tatty is enigmatic and intriguing to watch.
Byeee
Comment by katyzzz
Photography Tips
MS Paint Art
I loved your last two sentences, it seems your toddle up the road proved quite fruitful.
Remind me to introduce you to my two Paris dwelling children, plenty of French connections there, but as for the other one in Dorset, I don't think there's much going on in the movie world [but shades of the French Lieutenant's Woman]
I'm pretty movie illiterate, as you know.
katyzzz
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Where is your cinema?
Mine only ever has the latest crap from hollywood screening... you seem to have a very special cinema there... I will try and track (yet another) of your great review films down...
woo hoo this sounds brilliant and for me, comes on the back of a spate of recently viewed giggalo-style films; shot in the south of France or Italy, where young things of both sexes play for the older wealthy affluent society... an interesting addition this film will make.
As always I really enjoy taking the time to savour the words of your reviews. They are so well written.
Caio belle...
...hope your easter is a good one...
Lilla ...
PS Personally I think Aud's is getting too thin, non?
Comment by Cibbuano
Hunt Famous
Orble Post of the Day
Fat Cult
Techbreak
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
Thanks for your comments, it good to see you as always.
I wouldn't call you film illiterate at all, you seem to know what you like and might like. I wanted to see The Queen after your comments when you saw it a while ago. I missed it so will just have to wait for DVD now, I'm sure it won't take that long. I just happen to immerse myself in the films and genres I like.
So you have two children in Paris? I love Paris, all that art and Frenchness. Do you visit (I know that would be an expensive trip)? And another in Dorset in England? I have family there, quite a nice part of England, sleepy and green. Seems like your children are quite spread out...
Yes, the toddle was fruitful and on our way home we found a new cafe with an arty, friendly atmosphere that serves delicious desserts and great hot chocolates. Was a great spontaneous night.
Tracy
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
Audrey's performance reminded me a bit of Penelope Cruz in Volver, she also was provative and sultry and definitely a woman in charge. But....Audrey isn't as well endowed and curvy as Penelope especially as she seems to have lost lots of weight. There's a certain dress she wears where you will see what I mean.
Thanks for your comments.
Tracy
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
Thanks for your comments, I'm glad you enjoy my reviews so much. I love doing them.
I'm lucky as I live in an inner-city suburb of Sydney where a Dendy cinema is only a 15-minute walk and then there's another one a ten-minute drive away. I also have a Hollywood Hoyts one closeby for those times I need some fluff and escapism. You're in Brisbane aren't you, or did I imagine that (perfectly possible)? There's a Dendy up there, but I don't know if it's close enough to you.
What films have you watched lately? I love hearing about other people's film experiences.
Oh yes, I definitely think Audrey is getting too thin. Like I said to Cib there is a scene where she is in a sexy dress but it's just so obvious that she's lost weight. She is captivating to watch though, she plays the role so well. And there is definitely something about France and its language that is sultry and alluring.
Hope you're having a lovely long weekend,
Tracy
Comment by DuskDevi
Rugby World Cup 2007
Just a 'quickie' (It has its merits...)
I've read other reviews of this and read an interview with Pierre Salvadori and as you say this seems to be...
Not sure the premise of this attracts me but it sounds like a bit of escapist fun...and that's all I really want from my movies.
I get my reality from Life.
Hope you're having a great weekend Tracy.
Dusk
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
IS that the Dendy in North Sydney? I used to go there, when I lived in Wyagdon Street...or was that the Silver Shadows? Forgotten now...
Well, last night I wasted two hours watching this stupid film called The Departed. What an absolute waste of time it was. I heard everyone rave about it becuase Scorocee had produced it...Pah! ...honestly it was the biggest load of crap...have you seen it?
It had so much potential with a great cast and "face-off' style tension of opposites between Matt Damon (barf) and Leonardo De Caprio (not bad), with Jack Nicholson playing the Devil inbetween, that had me captivated.. but the whole thing just pettered into a big nothing???...perhaps that is the point, the nothingness of mafia-style, American-Irish war between cops and robbers? Who knows, for me it was like a firework that failed to launch.
Now I'm going to watch something with the children. I'm sure it'll be more interesting? Later tonight I was thinking of watching Tristen and Isold, have you seen it? A friend of mine said it ws excellent?
Cheers,
Lilla ...
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
Great to see you always.
Yes, I wasn't sure if this film captivated me when I read reviews but I was happy to leave the decision to the fate of the session times. I actually was more interested in Running with Scissors but was happy to sample this film, especially as I love French films.
I know what you mean about getting enough reality from life and wanting escapism from films. Sometimes I feel like that and then mostly (especially at the cinema), I watch the unusual ones for a pit-stop into another life that leaves me pondering....
Hope you're having a good long weekend,
Trace x
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
There's a Dendy in Newtown and one in Opera Quays. I love the one at Opera Quays and being greeted by the harbour after a good film. I don't know about the one in North Sydney, only the beautiful historic Orpheum in Cremorne.
Your comment about The Departed made me laugh because the first thing I think about with that film was the scene with Mark Wahberg and Leonardo in the police station where Wahberg asks him if he wants to be a c-t. I nearly fell off my cinema seat with the force of that question. I liked the film which is unusual for me as I don't often like seeing violent films but I was in the mood to be submerged into a different life -- the life spot I was in at that time was irritating and uncomfortable and I was happy to hide in the cinema for 2 hours. But that different life scared me into feeling like Boston is a place I never want to visit -- although I've heard it's beautiful and it was only a film! Funnily enough, Jack Nicholson's role annoyed me, it didn't seem to peak, maybe I expected too much from him? The ending scenes were a bit corny, back and forth killings and out-duping...but having said all that, I did enjoy it.
I haven't seen Tristen and Isolde, did you end up seeing it last night? It's a film I've wanted to see but just haven't got around to it. What did you think?
Byee
Comment by JohnDoe
Film & TV on DVD
Comment by Optomistic Opportunism
Bohemian Hiphop
Japanese Jazz Funk
Optomystic Opportunism
I saw Priceless Good Friday. Yep, Dendy Opera Quays...
If you would like me to write a review of the same movie and the same time contemplating Tautou as a high price whore, gimme a thumbs up.
For now, I'll do Scoop. Or has that been done too?
I guess I'm too slow. Plus too scared to do the research and find out if anyone has done it already.
Keep a lookout for me.
Good scopin,
Opto
Comment by Kleonaptra
Kalikapsychosis
I try not to take ANY movie too seriously....
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
Tracy
Comment by KylieW
Celebrity Obsession
Sounds like a Sunday afternoon kind of movie to me. If nothing else, I can enjoy the scenery of the French Riviera....it's been a few years since I was there....*sigh*.
Kylie
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
I know what you mean, it's been years for me too....aahhhh..
There was a part of me that would've loved to have a night at one of those lavish hotels and the other, stronger part of me abhorred the lifestyle. I wasn't interested in the clothes and the jewellery but would've just liked having an experience of such a luxury hotel...just one night though and not through the lengths she went to....she really sold herself for her standards.
Thanks for dropping in,
Tracy
Comment by Jessicca
Learning Something Everyday
Malaysia Found
But if I ever get to view it, I would. ^_^
Sometimes, such life does exist, for some minor people.
Have a blessed day.
Comment by Anonymous
Thanks for dropping in, yes I think there is a definitely a life like this out there for some people....some aspects of it were appealing and other parts seemed too compromising, but the film was a bit of a laugh too which is nice.
Tracy