Paris (2008)

Paris Poster

Pierre, a professional dancer, suffers from a serious heart disease. While he is waiting for a transplant which may (or may not) save his life, he has nothing better to do than look at the people around him, from the balcony of his Paris apartment.

Film Background
"Paris" is a French movie launched in 2008, directed by Cedric Klapisch and starring a rich ensemble cast consisting of Juliette Binoche, Romain Duris, and Fabrice Luchini. The motion picture is a mix of numerous tales showcasing the native Parisians and some outsiders from all strolls of life. It flaunts the romance and beauty of the city but also does not shy away from exposing its racially divided underbelly.

Plot
The plot of "Paris" rotates on the character of Pierre (Romain Duris), an expert dancer. His life goes through an extreme change when a serious heart problem medical diagnosis puts him in a possible death situation in the future if he does not go through a heart transplant. Facing what could be his demise promotes a newfound interest in observing the stress of Paris right from his home veranda. Pierre's observations and reflections are linked with numerous vignettes featuring a host of characters throughout Paris, which provides Klapisch's kaleidoscopic image of the city.

Pierre's sibling, Elise (Juliette Binoche), a social employee and separated mom of 3, moves into his apartment or condo to take care of him. In time, she fights isolation in her own life while assisting Pierre in his health battle.

Subplots
The film includes numerous subplots. Among them involves a university professor, Roland Verneuil (Fabrice Luchini), who falls for a young trainee, Laetitia (Melanie Laurent), and attempts to charm her through confidential text messages. Another subplot revolves around a fruit supplier, Jean (Albert Dupontel), who can't handle his cheating better half and develops sensations for a savvy market trader.

Another story showcases a Cameroonian immigrant's ordeal in Paris, providing an insight into the struggles dealt with by the immigrant neighborhood. Thus "Paris" at the same time provides a look into the lives of different people, each with their battles and pleasures, in one of the world's most renowned cities.

Themes
"Paris" explores numerous main styles consisting of love, death, seclusion, despair, gentrification and the immigrant experience. It depicts Paris as a city living under the shadow of death due to Pierre's approaching death and includes a silent character into the film-- the city itself of Paris, beautifully recording its renowned streets, buildings, and the Seine river.

Ending
The closing scenes of the movie hints at the possibility of hope and redemption for some characters. Pierre's health supports after his effective heart transplant although an unanticipated catastrophe occurs, Roland finds peace in unlikely locations, and some other characters witness a resolution to their stories. In spite of the hardships, the film conveys that love and charm can be discovered even in misfortune.

Important Reception
While the narrative suffers occasionally due to juggling too many storylines, Klapisch's instructions and the engaging efficiencies from the star-studded cast have been valued. "Paris" received primarily favorable evaluations for its representation of the city's lovely appeal and its cinematic tribute to the city of love.

Top Cast

  • Juliette Binoche (small)
    Juliette Binoche
    Elise
  • Romain Duris (small)
    Romain Duris
    Pierre
  • Fabrice Luchini (small)
    Fabrice Luchini
    Roland Verneuil
  • Albert Dupontel (small)
    Albert Dupontel
    Jean
  • François Cluzet (small)
    François Cluzet
    Philippe Verneuil
  • Karin Viard (small)
    Karin Viard
    La Boulangère
  • Gilles Lellouche (small)
    Gilles Lellouche
    Franky
  • Mélanie Laurent (small)
    Mélanie Laurent
    Laetitia
  • Zinedine Soualem (small)
    Zinedine Soualem
    Mourad
  • Julie Ferrier (small)
    Julie Ferrier
    Caroline
  • Olivia Bonamy (small)
    Olivia Bonamy
    Diane