Pauline & Paulette

I saw previews for this film and it caught my eye, so I rented the DVD. It was extremely well acted, especially by Dora van der Groen as Pauline. It had funny moments, and also true-to-life moments. It wasn't earth shattering, but it was very touching. I also enjoyed the director's commentary on the DVD. He talked about the decisions made, especially the use of color, and how long it took to get the film made - 4 years! It really was a labor of love. If you need heart-wrenching drama or action, this isn't the film for you, but if you appreciate good acting and scenes that touch your heart, I highly recommend this one!

This film is a subtle charmer. The acting is wonderful and worth watching several times, especially the character of Pauline and how she interacts with all the other characters of the film. Watch her eyes. An amazing portrayal. While the plot may seem simplistic to some viewers, it is not without its own form of dramatic tension and compelling comedy. The colors of the sets are interesting in conjunction with the character development. The music chosen for each scene is interesting and idiosyncratic. I was reminded of the Norwegian film "Elling," as well as some elements of the Canadian film "Strangers in Good Company." All these films have a real breath of fresh air that is palpable.

This movie is excellent. If you truly like dramas that get you in the heart with that ever so subtle hint of comedy then this film is definitely for you. BUT you will have to read subtitles if you choose to view this particular movie. Although I found it worth the effort some may not. While Paulette shows 'tough love' and Pauline is just sweet and really gets into that sensitive place inside you. this film shows an excellent lesson along with an entertaining plot. Plus this film is P.G. so it is excellent for families. It is for mild language. I counted 3 not bad at all words in total. So my advice is to see this movie. Take your kids. Take Grandma. Get out the popcorn! An excellent movie overall.

I recently saw this movie in a local theater. This was a deeply moving story about sisterhood and how our siblings affect us more than we know. Dora van der Groen did an outstanding job portraying a mentally challeneged elder woman coping with the death of one sister and the love of the other two. Ann Peterson also showed an outstanding performance.

I never expected much of this film although it was a Belgian picture and it had gained some reasonable success in (and even outside) Belgium. When I went to see it, I got what I thought I would get.

"Pauline en Paulette" is not a bad movie, but it has its flaws. First of all, the film doesn't provide any fresh material. It's a mix of some of the better 'retarded-movies' Hollywood has given us throughout the years: "Rain man", "Awakenings" and "What's eating Gilbert Grape". Especially the Leonardo DiCaprio film has some serious similarities with this one here. In both films, the autistic person is not always welcome and does not always get the required attention and caring. So, the story had been used before.

The acting was pretty good and the classical music within the film was a nice and fresh change. I respect this film for it is a Belgian one (and Belgian films are always low-budget), but it simply didn't get to me. I watched it, but I never felt anything. I couldn't care less about the characters. The fact that three old women take the lead might have something to do with it, but I think it's mainly because the whole film is so monotonous. And the few jokes can't help refreshing the gloomy script. Still, I stayed seated and underwent the film.

Not bad for a debut, but with a more original storyline and more colorful characters, this film might have been truly worth-watching.