Entre Nous (1983)

Entre Nous Poster
Original Title: Coup de foudre

In 1942 in occupied France, a Jewish refugee marries a soldier to escape deportation to Germany. Meanwhile a wealthy art student loses her first husband to a stray Resistance bullet; at the Liberation she meets an actor, gets pregnant, and marries him. Lena and Madeleine meet at their children's school in Lyon in 1952 and the intensity of their relationship strains both their marriages to the breaking point.

Film Overview
"Entre Nous" (also referred to as "Coup de Foudre") is a critically acclaimed French movie directed by Diane Kurys and co-written by Kurys and Olivier Cohen in 1983. The film is loosely influenced by Kurys' own childhood, focusing on the complex bond that develops between 2 women in post-World War II France. The movie blends historic and feminist narratives, distinguished by its amazing lead efficiencies from Isabelle Huppert and Miou-Miou.

Plot Synopsis
The film informs the story of Lena (Isabelle Huppert) and Madeleine (Miou-Miou), who fulfill in Lyon in 1942. Lena is Jewish and married to Michel (Guy Marchand), a gentile who assists her hide during the war. On the other hand, Madeleine is an artist married to Costa (Jean-Pierre Bacri), who likewise works as her manager. The 2 ladies satisfy unexpectedly at a school where their children study and are right away drawn to each other. They rapidly end up being fantastic good friends, sharing experiences, laughter, and sorrow while grappling with their disappointing marital relationships.

Expedition of Feminism and Freedom
"Entre Nous" explores feminism and the idea of freedom, sculpting an emotional journey of 2 females who discover solace in each other's company. Both females are stifled by their marital relationships. Lena is haunted by her past and does not like Michel, while Madeleine is neglected and maltreated by Costa. In spite of having professions and being moms, they soon understand they are seeking comparable desires: individual fulfillment and independence.

Developing Their Own Path
Tired of their unfulfilling lives, Lena and Madeleine start a thriving company, opening a store for Madeleine's styles. It's an innovative action for the time, proving a wet blanket for their respective partners, who are unable to comprehend their better halves' desire for sovereignty. The store not just represents their survival but also their assertion to lead their lives as they want.

Enigmatic Love Story
A major twist takes place when Lena discovers Madeleine is romantically interested in her. Satisfying each other's requirements on various levels, their relationship progressively heightens into a deep psychological bond. Yet, Lena is historically heterosexual and although she deeply loves Madeleine, she is torn in between her own sexuality and her love for Madeleine. Nevertheless, it's clear that both females have a solid bond, regardless of the romantic ramifications. The movie eventually ends with Lena and Madeleine escaping to Paris together, leaving their disorderly lives behind.

Acclamations
"Entre Nous" became the third foreign language movie to be chosen for the Academy Award for Best Picture. It also won the Louis Delluc Prize and secured 3 César Awards, in addition to multiple nominations.

Conclusion
"Entre Nous" is a poignant cinematic work of art, known for its delicate representation of female relationship and nuanced expedition of their emotional and mental intricacies. Skillfully directed, perfectly composed, and powerfully acted, the movie eloquently delves on themes of love, individual liberation, and the real essence of companionship. It stands as a testament to the bond that two women can share, integrating friendship with an unusual love, while highlighting their defend independence in a society dominated by males.

Top Cast

  • Miou-Miou (small)
    Miou-Miou
    Madeleine
  • Isabelle Huppert (small)
    Isabelle Huppert
    Lena Weber
  • Guy Marchand (small)
    Guy Marchand
    Michel Korski
  • Jean-Pierre Bacri (small)
    Jean-Pierre Bacri
    Costa Segara
  • Robin Renucci (small)
    Robin Renucci
    Raymond
  • Patrick Bauchau (small)
    Patrick Bauchau
    Carlier
  • Jacques Alric
    Mr. Vernier
  • Jacqueline Doyen (small)
    Jacqueline Doyen
    Mme Vernier
  • Saga Blanchard
    Sophie
  • Guillaume Le Guellec
    René
  • Christine Pascal (small)
    Christine Pascal
    Sarah