Molière
In 1640s Paris, great French playwright and actor Moli?re abandoned the wealthy privileges he was born into, to follow his love of theatre. But at the age of 22, his acting troupe has failed and he finds himself imprisoned for an unpaid debt. After being released he disappeared for several months – an absence he never cared to explain.
Taking this wee mystery, French writer/director Laurent Tirard creates an elaborate historical fiction. Moli?re’s release is orchestrated by Monsieur Jourdain, a rich man who wants the young thespian to help rehearse a one-act play he’s written with the aim of seducing a beautiful widow. As Jourdain is married to Elmire, and is the "respectable" father of two daughters his design must remain secret so Moli?re is introduced into the house as Tartuffe, an austere priest. Under this deceit, Moli?re begins on an adventure of theatre, danger and romance (the latter with Jourdain’s wife). The concept being that this diversion gave the young playwright the characters and ideas for his future great works.
Taking this wee mystery, French writer/director Laurent Tirard creates an elaborate historical fiction. Moli?re’s release is orchestrated by Monsieur Jourdain, a rich man who wants the young thespian to help rehearse a one-act play he’s written with the aim of seducing a beautiful widow. As Jourdain is married to Elmire, and is the "respectable" father of two daughters his design must remain secret so Moli?re is introduced into the house as Tartuffe, an austere priest. Under this deceit, Moli?re begins on an adventure of theatre, danger and romance (the latter with Jourdain’s wife). The concept being that this diversion gave the young playwright the characters and ideas for his future great works.
2008Rating: PG, contains sexual reference96 minsFranceFrench
Comedy
- Director:
- Laurent Tirard ('The Story of My Life')
- Writer:
- Laurent TirardGr
- Cast:
- Romain DurisFabrice LuchiniLaura MoranteEdouard BaerLudivine SagnierFanny Valette
Molière / Reviews
The New York Times
Mr. Duris, hairy and snaggletoothed, has the look of a man stricken less by passion or inspiration than by indigestion.
Full reviewThe Guardian
Romain Duris may be a superb actor, but a light comedian he ain't. The farcical business of climbing up walls, and ogling unclothed young women through the windows isn't really his style.
Full review
New Zealand Herald
It's a vigorous, exuberant romp, sustained by Duris' wonderful performance and containing what must be the sexiest scene in the history of cinema involving two people in different rooms.
Full review
Newshub
The temptation for many critics has been to compare Moliere to John Madden's witty and seductive Shakespeare in Love. In this case, that is not too bad a thing. Both movies sparkle with comedy and romance, and have fictional story lines that are both enjoyable and easy to believe.
Full review
Christchurch Press
All will appreciate the opulent set decorations and impressive costumes which are given full reign by Tirad, and his use of two mirrors to create one of the most inventive and cleverest "romantic" scenes ever captured on celluloid. That said, don't expect something akin to Dangerous Liaisons – this crackles with witty banter rather than sexual frisson. But at least there is plenty of candy for the eye with Gallic heartthrob du jour Duris, the fetching Sagnier and Morante.
Full review
BBC
A sprightly romp, and Romain Duris drips with goofy Gallic charm as the young wannabe 'artiste'.
Full review
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