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22Jan2016
godz. - 08:13

“Untouchables”

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Movies dealing with disability, handicap or sickness are usually difficult and depressing. It is difficult to face somebody's suffering and total dependence on others. This difficult subject is handled well by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano, the screenwriters and moviemakers of "Untouchables".

 

This movie is based on true events and describes the story of paralysed millionaire Philippe (François Cluzet), who employs a caretaker called Driss (Omar Sy), a young boy from suburbia. It is difficult to imagine this feisty, easy-going former prisoner playing the role of caretaker for an invalid. Why is he employed? It seems that, bored with the daily monotony of his life and tired with his infirmity, the man discovers in Driss the promise of change, or maybe he simply decides to give a chance to a boy "with a past". At the same time, Driss proves that he is able not only to drink beer and smoke joints in dubious company. Predictably, both men will form a unique friendship.

 

They are different in almost every aspect: different social groups, upbringing, approach to life - even the music they listen to. Reportedly, opposites attract and this relationship is proof of that. A sense of humour is what brings them together. Looking at Driss, it is visible in his every smile, in his easy-going approach to life and in the jokes he tells. To begin with, Philippe hides everything inside, his sense of humour dimmed by his sickness; but, influenced by the young caregiver, it shows up in the least expected moments. Both men benefit from this relationship. They complement each other's lives and learn how to look at life from a different perspective.

 

It seems to me that in relationships with handicapped people the worst thing is pity. Regardless of whether they have arms and legs or are in a wheelchair, people want to be treated normally, without being reminded about their disabilities. With time, Driss "forgets" about the disabilities of his principal, which makes their relationship unique. This humorous situation means that despite the difficult subject matter, the movie is simply a well-made comedy. The simplicity of the message and humor does not mean, however, that we lose the real sense of this story; rather it allows it to avoid unnecessary emotionalism and sentimentalism.

 

Two huge pros of the movie are the beautiful music by Ludovico Einaudi, and Omar Sy, who was rewarded for this role with the Cesar award for the best actor. His excellent acting, easy-going and nonchalant style, which stand in contrast to the conservative and wooden world of the French social scene, made me cry with laugher.

 

I really recommend it!

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