Final Arrangements (2008)

Final Arrangements Poster
Original Title: Bouquet Final

An American funeral director is recruited to a job in Paris.

Introduction
"Final Arrangements" is an independent comedy-drama movie launched in 2008. Initially showcased in movie festivals, the quirky funny, provided by Five Clover Films, was directed by Bryan Martin and composed by Max Doty. The film boasts an excellent line-up of actors led by Jaleel White, Anna Maria Horsford, and Basil Wallace. It is noteworthy for being one of the few films to minimize a rather morbid subject - funeral arrangements.

Plot
The narrative of "Final Arrangements" centers on Armin (played by Jaleel White), a youngish funeral director who takes place to be the only sane individual in the small and uncommon town of Hope's End. Armin has a significantly difficult task of keeping a funeral house service as the townsfolk become soaked up in the trend of a happiness-boosting development called Brascoe's Elixir. This supposed 'wonder treatment' for unhappiness, marketed by the dubious entrepreneur Jack Brascoe, reduces the death rate; therefore, the funeral plans end up being uncommon.

Character Contrasts
Armin remains devoted to making the town's funeral plans as considerate and caring as possible, despite mounting difficulties from the townsfolk's increasing fixation with eternal joy and immortality. He's contrasted with the charming and deceitful Jack Brascoe, who does not care about the welfare of the people or the result his concoction has on companies like Armin's. Armin sticks out as a bastion of perceptiveness and empathy in a town driven by the frenzy for eternal happiness and immortality.

Resolution and Themes
The movie culminates with Armin and his good friends discovering the Elixir's real nature and conserving the town prior to it's far too late. It highlights the absurd lengths to which individuals will go to accomplish joy, even if it implies abandoning factor and compassion. The movie highlights the supreme truth of death, suggesting that acceptance of death should belong of our pursuit of happiness.

Comedic Elements and Performances
"Final Arrangements" keeps a fragile balance in between comedy and drama, providing laughs without taking away from the moments of self-questioning. A big plus point for the movie is the strong efficiency of Jaleel White, formerly known for his tradition as Steve Urkel in the comedy Family Matters. He proves his adaptability as an actor, depicting a more fully grown and downtrodden character in this film. Basil Wallace's enigmatic performance as Jack Brascoe likewise shines with his effervescent beauty and underhand villainy.

Conclusion
"Final Arrangements" is a commendable endeavor into tackling a rather morbid subject, opening discussions about death, joy, and the lengths humans go to defy natural cycles. Its comedic take on these styles does well to keep the audience engaged throughout the story, while the cast gives a remarkable efficiency. The movie strikes a perfect balance between absurdity and gravitas and leaves the audience considering the real meaning of joy and death.

Top Cast

  • Didier Bourdon (small)
    Didier Bourdon
    Gervais Bron
  • Marc-André Grondin (small)
    Marc-André Grondin
    Gabriel
  • Bérénice Bejo (small)
    Bérénice Bejo
    Claire
  • Chantal Neuwirth (small)
    Chantal Neuwirth
    Evelyne
  • Gérard Depardieu (small)
    Gérard Depardieu
    Hugo
  • Marthe Keller (small)
    Marthe Keller
    Nickye
  • Marilú Marini (small)
    Marilú Marini
    Carmen
  • Anne Girouard (small)
    Anne Girouard
    Natacha
  • Valérie Bonneton (small)
    Valérie Bonneton
    Marie Thanato
  • Michel Galabru (small)
    Michel Galabru
    Monsieur Froissard
  • Guillaume Briat (small)
    Guillaume Briat
    Le prêtre