Michou d'Auber

Almost September 2021 and I was reading about this movie ...And found my own review! How sad is the fact that this movie has not any aditional reviews since. But I had already forgot about it and also forgot I reviewed it as it is just below this.

Yes totally spoiled! I saw the title as part of my Weekly TV PGR and since it was screened late I felt it may have been a mediocre film. But my wife recorded it for my sake...As I used to be French, some 47 years ago when I departed for Australia... But yes totally spoiled I was when we watched it. It was France as I remembered my tender teens and beyond. I was about a week before the age of twenty when Algeria voted for independence at a referendum. But I would not say this spoiled me. What did, was Bourville, Dalida, Be Bob a lou la, Enrico Macias and very much the country side I learned to love in the department (of Doubs), yet so familiar as it is portrayed here in this movie. It was definitely one of the best trips I made down memory lane. I was also so pleased to see Depardieu in his best element. As for the leading lady, she was perfect too, along with those wonderful boys of which "Michou" was the super nova! I was shocked, not by the adultery, or the political, violence, but more to see there are only three reviews before mine Warmth exuded out of this story almost to its entire length. It felt honest and genuine and I wish I could convey this feeling to non French audience who have seen this film, but know that with the best skill and intentions it's not possible just like this young boy trying to swallow and appreciate a pork sausage! That's what culture is all about and I don't think it's interchangeable. This does not mean that there is no material to enjoy in it but it is an important factor to get the full impact of such work. Oh I nearly forgot one more spoiler...The "Resurrection"of "Monsieur Lazhar"! Perhaps a little cryptic but for those who've seen the movie I hope they'll understand.

Oscillating between comedy and politically correct lesson of morality, this film does not find its public. Depardieu's game is impeccable, but that is not enough to save the whole film, dripping with predictability and syrupy cliches. Disappointing