Park Benches

After having seen the cast and read a preview I was convinced it would be a good movie. Generally this is exactly the type of movie I like. A movie about the interactions of regular people in a neighbourhood. No special plot, just a poetic observation of life in a limited space.

Unfortunately the film was a total disappointment. It felt like a juxtaposition of stories which never allow the audience empathise with the characters.

The most engaging scene was the one in the park with an interesting alternation of the camera between different people. The viewer felt part of the scene as a common bystander sat on a bench, observing each different group, each different scene. The director should have developed this part as the film title lead to believe instead of letting the scene at the hardware store drag on.

In the end I wonder why so many great French actors agreed to collaborate on this film.