Not on the Lips (2003)

Movie Introduction
"Not on the Lips" (French: "Pas sur la Bouche") is a 2003 French movie directed by Alain Resnais. Based on a 1925 operetta, the movie is a glowing, energetic and colorful comical farce, plentiful in musical numbers and dance ensembles, developing an upbeat environment while tactfully dealing with intricate relationship dramas and social custom-mades of the 1920s.

Plot Overview
Set in Paris in the 1920s, "Not on the Lips" focuses on Gilberte Valandray (Sabine Azéma) and her rich hubby, Georges Valandray (Pierre Arditi). Gilberte is Georges' second better half, preserving a steadfast belief in love's exclusivity, having no knowledge about Gilberte's past relationship with an American millionaire named Eric Thompson (Lambert Wilson)-- her first husband. Gilberte's marriage to Eric took place in America, where divorce existed, unlike France, enabling her to remarry.

Unfolding Drama and Confusion
Problems begin brewing when Georges, unaware of Eric being Gilberte's ex-husband, plans to sign a company contract with him. To stir more chaos, Faradel, a playboy (Daniel Prévost), likewise becomes taken with Gilberte, making ruthless advances towards her. Gilberte's sibling, Arlette (Isabelle Nanty), who lives with the couple and knows about Gilberte's secret, help in the twisted web of confusion, included by the arrival of Eric in Paris.

Dispute Resolution and Conclusion
The film reaches its climax when all characters face each other at a luxurious celebration tossed by the Valandrays. In a comical and musical ending, Gilberte's past is exposed. Surprisingly, Georges responds calmly and accepts the fact about his other half's past, declaring how the twists have boosted their relationship. The film concludes on a heartwarming note, where couples reunite and misunderstandings are reduced.

Performances and Musical Numbers
The performances by the cast are remarkable and focused, striking a balance in between light-hearted humour and the issues developing from deception. The chirpy musical numbers, incorporated into the narrative, enhance the film's delightful energy. The movie's beauty lies in its ability to transform something as complex and dramatic as relationship secrets into a playful and entertaining musical comedy.

Creative Design and Direction
The distinct artistic style, with the decoration and costumes reflecting the Roaring '20s, includes depth to the film. The set's vibrancy and a stunning variety of colors complement the tone of the film. Resnais' direction makes the cinematic adjustment of an operetta stimulating, ensuring a fast pace to match the genre's theatrical vivacity.

Conclusion
"Not on the Lips" is thus a pleasing adaption of a timeless operetta, loaded with remarkable efficiencies, engaging musical numbers, and a hectic narrative. Regardless of revolving around complex relationship webs, the director's technique makes it a pleasurable watch. The movie efficiently walks the line of being a commentary on social customizeds while still supplying an entertaining musical comedy experience.

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