The Intouchables

        This new foreign film was a smash hit in it's native France and it's easy to see why. It's an unusual story about a relationship that would seem utterly impossible except that it's based in truth.

         Francois Cluzet plays Phillipe, a wealthy but paralyzed man looking for a new aide. When street punk Driss, played by Omar Sy, shows up just to get a signature for unemployment, an unexpected bond begins between the two men.  Coming from completely different worlds, you would think this could never happen in real life but apparently it did and formed the basis for the film.

         The relationship between the men is joyful, frustrating, dramatic and at times very amusing as each learns from the other and become better men for it. Omar Sy is very charismatic, with a charming smile that can melt hearts. Mr.Cluzet manages to convey a wide range with just head movements and facial expressions. 

          The film never gets dark, even though it deals with a serious subject. There are moments that hint of danger but the film is directed with a deliberate light touch and you can't help but leave the theater in a good mood. During the credits, we get to see the real Phillipe and Driss which makes a lovely coda for a remarkable story.