18 recensioni
This film is not necessarily fast paced, so it's not for people who have the habit of checking their phone during presentation. Some yokes are subtly prepared for quite some time, and are probably being missed, if attention wanders to what Niki or Ariana are up to these days.
On the other hand this feature is a great pleasure for people with some patience. It shows a lot of respect and understanding for its characters, and even the annoying ones get their moments of greatness. Its humour is far away from embarrassing its protagonists, and the laughter stems from compassion not farts.
- Propagandist
- 18 ago 2018
- Permalink
- maurice_yacowar
- 7 feb 2018
- Permalink
Enjoyable enough French film that made me laugh out loud numerous times. It also gave me something resembling borderline PTSD flashbacks to my former hospitality and events career.
The characters are all rather unique and funny in their own ways, without all being truly memorable. I mainly just remember the names of the groom (Pierre) and the pervy photographer (Guy). The man character delivered a great performance - though it was the supporting cast that provided the majority of laughs.
Beautiful setting in that French chateau. Some excellent scenes towards the end involving some fireworks and "aerial" display. The movie itself is fast paced, with rapid fire dialogue throughout. Perhaps slightly too long in length.
The bloke in the hybrid pyjamas was the best part. Will forever make me smile.
The characters are all rather unique and funny in their own ways, without all being truly memorable. I mainly just remember the names of the groom (Pierre) and the pervy photographer (Guy). The man character delivered a great performance - though it was the supporting cast that provided the majority of laughs.
Beautiful setting in that French chateau. Some excellent scenes towards the end involving some fireworks and "aerial" display. The movie itself is fast paced, with rapid fire dialogue throughout. Perhaps slightly too long in length.
The bloke in the hybrid pyjamas was the best part. Will forever make me smile.
- maccas-56367
- 12 mar 2021
- Permalink
Let's face it: the film has a slow start and the pace is leisurely. But the psychological portraits are finely chiseled, and this microcosm of a catering outfit is endearing. Many of the foibles (& strengths) of French society are painted with a light touch, up to and including the marriage customs of up and coming -but not quite upper class- wealthy patrons. Some of the characters appear a bit exaggerated, but after all they may well have been painted from real-life models.
I can understand why critics on both sides of the Pond have snubbed this movie; but I believe it to be quite watchable, with many episodes which are funny or touching. My vote is 7/10.
I can understand why critics on both sides of the Pond have snubbed this movie; but I believe it to be quite watchable, with many episodes which are funny or touching. My vote is 7/10.
- christian_fournier
- 17 mar 2024
- Permalink
- Horst_In_Translation
- 31 gen 2018
- Permalink
"C'est la vie" is a hilarious movie, but also very french, which is both a great thing, as its humour captures very well some subtleties about the french, and a weakness, as some north-American critics may not appreciate these subtleties, as they aren't as "in your face" as often seen. But from a French pov, this is an absolute pleasure. First and foremost, Jean-Pierre Bacri does "du Bacri", and this from the onset. The laughs are loud, the control and pace perfect. From that point on, this great ensemble will carry the movie from surreal situations to absurd quid pro quo leaving the audience in tears from laughs and deeply satisfied. In days and age where everything is so serious, don't feel guilty to enjoy this joyful parenthesis.
- laurent-milot
- 16 set 2017
- Permalink
French cinema is known for its impeccable ability to balance humor and depth, often presenting the messy, unpredictable nature of life in the most captivating ways. "C'est la Vie!" (original title: "Le Sens de la Fête") is a great example of this, blending witty comedy with moments of reflection about the challenges people face in their daily lives. Directed by Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, the film is a vibrant, often hilarious look into the behind-the-scenes chaos of organizing a lavish wedding celebration. While it's easy to be drawn to the movie's comedic moments, it's the underlying emotional layers and rich character development that truly elevate it.[11:47, 07/03/2025] ChatGPT: Set in a grand chateau just outside Paris, the film follows a group of catering staff who are tasked with providing the perfect experience for an extravagant wedding. The ensemble cast features Jean-Pierre (Jean-Pierre Bacri), the cynical and long-suffering maître d', and his team of chefs, waiters, and assistants. Their mission is to ensure that everything goes smoothly, from the delicate appetizers to the perfect timing of each course. But, as we all know, no plan is ever perfect, and the night soon spirals into a series of comedic mishaps, misunderstandings, and personal dramas.
What makes "C'est la Vie!" so enjoyable is the ensemble cast and their performances. Jean-Pierre Bacri's portrayal of Jean-Pierre is spot-on, capturing the weariness and frustration of someone who has seen it all. He's the veteran of the team, trying to keep everything together while his colleagues-each with their own quirks and flaws-constantly add to the mayhem. Bacri delivers his lines with impeccable timing, balancing dry humor and exasperation in a way that makes his character both relatable and endearing. The supporting cast is equally impressive. From the rookie waiter to the overly enthusiastic photographer, every character brings something unique to the table, contributing to the chaos and the comedy. One standout is the chef, played by Vincent Macaigne, whose perfectionist attitude clashes with the unpredictable events unfolding around him. The tension between the characters is what keeps the movie from becoming just another slapstick comedy-each individual's flaws and aspirations are what truly drive the story forward.
The film also excels in its ability to weave humor into real-life struggles. As the night wears on, the chaos doesn't just come from the wedding's logistical issues-it also comes from the personal problems each character is dealing with. Jean-Pierre is constantly caught in the middle of conflicts, from his troubled relationship with the wedding planner to his attempts to mediate between his younger colleagues who are caught up in their own romantic dramas. These subplots add depth to the characters, making their comedic blunders feel more grounded in reality. In addition to its strong performances, "C'est la Vie!" also stands out for its direction and pacing. The film doesn't rush through its plot, allowing each character's storyline to unfold at a natural pace. The filmmakers also make great use of the setting, with the luxurious yet cramped chateau serving as the perfect backdrop for all the drama. The grandeur of the location contrasts beautifully with the chaotic events inside, adding to the film's thematic exploration of how life's greatest moments often come with a touch of disorder.
What makes "C'est la Vie!" especially enjoyable is that it doesn't overstay its welcome. The film is lighthearted, but it doesn't shy away from showing the struggles of its characters. It's a reminder that life, much like a wedding, is full of surprises-some good, some bad, but all part of the experience. While the film is primarily a comedy, it also touches on themes of teamwork, patience, and the way people handle pressure. Despite the chaos, the characters ultimately come together to make the night memorable, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and satisfaction. If there's one thing to critique, it's that some of the character arcs could have been explored in a bit more depth. While we get a good sense of who these characters are, there's a feeling that some of their personal stories could have been developed further. However, this doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
In conclusion, "C'est la Vie!" is a delightful French comedy that offers much more than just laughs. It's a fun and insightful look at the messy, unpredictable nature of life and the people who try to navigate it. With its strong ensemble cast, witty writing, and clever direction, it's a movie that will leave you both laughing and reflecting. If you're a fan of comedies that balance humor with heartfelt moments, this one's definitely worth watching.
What makes "C'est la Vie!" so enjoyable is the ensemble cast and their performances. Jean-Pierre Bacri's portrayal of Jean-Pierre is spot-on, capturing the weariness and frustration of someone who has seen it all. He's the veteran of the team, trying to keep everything together while his colleagues-each with their own quirks and flaws-constantly add to the mayhem. Bacri delivers his lines with impeccable timing, balancing dry humor and exasperation in a way that makes his character both relatable and endearing. The supporting cast is equally impressive. From the rookie waiter to the overly enthusiastic photographer, every character brings something unique to the table, contributing to the chaos and the comedy. One standout is the chef, played by Vincent Macaigne, whose perfectionist attitude clashes with the unpredictable events unfolding around him. The tension between the characters is what keeps the movie from becoming just another slapstick comedy-each individual's flaws and aspirations are what truly drive the story forward.
The film also excels in its ability to weave humor into real-life struggles. As the night wears on, the chaos doesn't just come from the wedding's logistical issues-it also comes from the personal problems each character is dealing with. Jean-Pierre is constantly caught in the middle of conflicts, from his troubled relationship with the wedding planner to his attempts to mediate between his younger colleagues who are caught up in their own romantic dramas. These subplots add depth to the characters, making their comedic blunders feel more grounded in reality. In addition to its strong performances, "C'est la Vie!" also stands out for its direction and pacing. The film doesn't rush through its plot, allowing each character's storyline to unfold at a natural pace. The filmmakers also make great use of the setting, with the luxurious yet cramped chateau serving as the perfect backdrop for all the drama. The grandeur of the location contrasts beautifully with the chaotic events inside, adding to the film's thematic exploration of how life's greatest moments often come with a touch of disorder.
What makes "C'est la Vie!" especially enjoyable is that it doesn't overstay its welcome. The film is lighthearted, but it doesn't shy away from showing the struggles of its characters. It's a reminder that life, much like a wedding, is full of surprises-some good, some bad, but all part of the experience. While the film is primarily a comedy, it also touches on themes of teamwork, patience, and the way people handle pressure. Despite the chaos, the characters ultimately come together to make the night memorable, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and satisfaction. If there's one thing to critique, it's that some of the character arcs could have been explored in a bit more depth. While we get a good sense of who these characters are, there's a feeling that some of their personal stories could have been developed further. However, this doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
In conclusion, "C'est la Vie!" is a delightful French comedy that offers much more than just laughs. It's a fun and insightful look at the messy, unpredictable nature of life and the people who try to navigate it. With its strong ensemble cast, witty writing, and clever direction, it's a movie that will leave you both laughing and reflecting. If you're a fan of comedies that balance humor with heartfelt moments, this one's definitely worth watching.
- TraianDufresne
- 6 mar 2025
- Permalink
Directors Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano had already come up with a masterpiece in 2011: LES INTOUCHABLES, brimming with joie de vivre despite the physical and social limitations of the two main characters, brilliantly played by François Cluzet and Omar Sy.
That same zest for life is present in LE SENS DE LA FÊTE, and certainly the acting is of the highest order once again. Were this an American film, and Jean-Pierre Bacri would certainly have received an Oscar nomination. His control over his party function team, his business sense, his perceptiveness of his troop members' moods, and even his occasionally deadpan moments render his performance sublime, possibly the most complete, subtle, and perceptive I watched in 2017.
There are many other performers in this film but that never detracts from the film's focus and all of them do an excellent job of raising this film to the highest levels of comedy, including two Indians from the Punjab who have some of the peachiest small parts I have watched in the recent past.
From the above, it is easy to conclude that dialogue is sharp and funny, as characters find themselves in all manner of laughable, embarrassing, sexy, unprofessional, and other situations. Perhaps the screenplay's greatest merit is that it keeps subtly misleading the viewer into believing that the outcome of a given sequence will be this or that - to be sure, you never get the pat solution!
Photography is excellent, especially the night shots and the sequence involving a balloon in flight. Soundtrack is very appropriate, never interfering, but always helping to give substance to the film.
Finally - please forgive me if I repeat my introduction - what a great job of directing!
This is one of the best, subtlest and most sublime comedies I have ever had the privilege to watch. I was really sorry to see the credits roll up at the end. and that's not what I feel about many movies these days.
Masterpiece - 10/10
That same zest for life is present in LE SENS DE LA FÊTE, and certainly the acting is of the highest order once again. Were this an American film, and Jean-Pierre Bacri would certainly have received an Oscar nomination. His control over his party function team, his business sense, his perceptiveness of his troop members' moods, and even his occasionally deadpan moments render his performance sublime, possibly the most complete, subtle, and perceptive I watched in 2017.
There are many other performers in this film but that never detracts from the film's focus and all of them do an excellent job of raising this film to the highest levels of comedy, including two Indians from the Punjab who have some of the peachiest small parts I have watched in the recent past.
From the above, it is easy to conclude that dialogue is sharp and funny, as characters find themselves in all manner of laughable, embarrassing, sexy, unprofessional, and other situations. Perhaps the screenplay's greatest merit is that it keeps subtly misleading the viewer into believing that the outcome of a given sequence will be this or that - to be sure, you never get the pat solution!
Photography is excellent, especially the night shots and the sequence involving a balloon in flight. Soundtrack is very appropriate, never interfering, but always helping to give substance to the film.
Finally - please forgive me if I repeat my introduction - what a great job of directing!
This is one of the best, subtlest and most sublime comedies I have ever had the privilege to watch. I was really sorry to see the credits roll up at the end. and that's not what I feel about many movies these days.
Masterpiece - 10/10
- adrian-43767
- 12 gen 2018
- Permalink
I understand where this movie was going; the problem is it never got there. I love French cinema, and "C'est la vie" is a good specimen of a French comedy turned food for thought about life and all the ordinary and extraordinary things it has to offer. The film has some French humor (albeit the "some" is on the "little" side), convincing cast, but the lack of plot and development makes it wander toward unsubstantial details, which ultimately makes it boring. The details are poorly organized around the main message of the movie, and the message itself is a little vague. Overall, I recommend it to French cinema fans, but others will probably find it slow and boring.
What an amazing movie. Details, locations, conversations, all with a twist. Long time I had such a laugh in the movie theater.
The title does not cover the movie at all. Myself I was a bit reluctant to go out and watch this, but hey this is a must-go-see for everybody who likes french humor, but not over the top.
Everything seems artificial or pretty caricatural: characters, dialogues, situations like the quarrel in front of the castle at the beginning. You can not avoid having very quickly a feeling of a gross and clumsy comedy. As the movie goes on, you expect a storyline a bit more subtle but nothing different happens. Your initial impression grows more and more till becoming a mere and strong matter of fact: this movie is a pure failure aimed at entertaining typical right-thinking people.
What a funny - while subtle and sensitive film.
Under the guise of a posh wedding at a castle in France - where little goes as planned, the film takes aim at French society (in general).
Funny moments abound - from slapstick, to word play, to delightful chaos, to more subtle allusions. Knowing a thing or two about French humour, culture and society may definitely help one enjoy it even more.
Even if you don't know much about the French and their quirks, you may still enjoy the film and maybe develop a taste for their delightful tongue-in-cheek situations.
After the film ended (and I stopped laughing) I realized how multilayered and subtle the film was.
Warning: if you are into Hollywood stuff, you may NOT find this one up your alley.
Under the guise of a posh wedding at a castle in France - where little goes as planned, the film takes aim at French society (in general).
Funny moments abound - from slapstick, to word play, to delightful chaos, to more subtle allusions. Knowing a thing or two about French humour, culture and society may definitely help one enjoy it even more.
Even if you don't know much about the French and their quirks, you may still enjoy the film and maybe develop a taste for their delightful tongue-in-cheek situations.
After the film ended (and I stopped laughing) I realized how multilayered and subtle the film was.
Warning: if you are into Hollywood stuff, you may NOT find this one up your alley.
Max has been a caterer for 30 years: he has successfully organized hundreds of parties but now he's a bit at the end of his rope. Well today, what luck! he finds himself in charge of a sublime wedding party in the most sumptuous setting, a 17th century castle. But, for various reasons, disaster threatens at any time...
This is not the first film about a wedding that goes sour ("A Wedding" by Altman being the ultimate prototype) but this one, signed by the serviceable Nakache and Toledano ("Those Happy Days", "The Intouchables ") is one of the most successful. Not content to be written with finesse and skillfully directed (despite all the difficulties presented by the genre of choral film) "Le Sens de la fête" can boast of functioning on several levels, which raises it well above a simple comedy. It is both documentary (the functioning of a whole brigade under the direction of a caterer) and social (the vicissitudes of a small business, the working conditions of its employees in the face of these wealthy people who treat themselves to a 200 hundred-cover banquet in a manor), psychological (a whole range of individuals are studied under a magnifying glass) and sociological (the problem of immigration, already addressed in "Samba", illustrated here by the fate of Tamil employees); all this without any of these dimensions getting in the way of funny situations and dialogues. A bit of suspense (how will Max and his team cope when disasters pile up?), a hint of poetry (the bridegroom and the balloon in the night) and a great collective interpretation, led by a Jean-Pierre Bacri, grumpy as expected but also overflowing with humanity. Let yourself be tempted by this tasty cocktail with the perfect mix of fun, emotion, and gravity. You won't regret it.
This is not the first film about a wedding that goes sour ("A Wedding" by Altman being the ultimate prototype) but this one, signed by the serviceable Nakache and Toledano ("Those Happy Days", "The Intouchables ") is one of the most successful. Not content to be written with finesse and skillfully directed (despite all the difficulties presented by the genre of choral film) "Le Sens de la fête" can boast of functioning on several levels, which raises it well above a simple comedy. It is both documentary (the functioning of a whole brigade under the direction of a caterer) and social (the vicissitudes of a small business, the working conditions of its employees in the face of these wealthy people who treat themselves to a 200 hundred-cover banquet in a manor), psychological (a whole range of individuals are studied under a magnifying glass) and sociological (the problem of immigration, already addressed in "Samba", illustrated here by the fate of Tamil employees); all this without any of these dimensions getting in the way of funny situations and dialogues. A bit of suspense (how will Max and his team cope when disasters pile up?), a hint of poetry (the bridegroom and the balloon in the night) and a great collective interpretation, led by a Jean-Pierre Bacri, grumpy as expected but also overflowing with humanity. Let yourself be tempted by this tasty cocktail with the perfect mix of fun, emotion, and gravity. You won't regret it.
- guy-bellinger
- 25 feb 2021
- Permalink
This is really excellent, funny, intelligent, simple, hard, elegant as life can be sometimes and so french. The music by the great bassist and composer
Avishaï Cohen give a magnificient, wonderful feel...Awsome..
- soprano-69707
- 3 gen 2021
- Permalink
Toledano and Co did well in "serious" dramatic movies. here they deliver a pathetic attempt to turn Bacris's talent and grumpiness into a subtle form of comedy, it's a TOTAL FAILURE, but for the last 10 min of this movie, ifyou are still in the room watching it!.
- pierrebarberis
- 24 mar 2018
- Permalink
This is really excellent, funny, intelligent, hard, soft, elegant, sophisticated and so simple as life can be sometimes... The music by the great Avishaï Cohen give a magnificient feel... Awsome..
- soprano-69707
- 3 gen 2021
- Permalink
- Andres-Camara
- 17 nov 2018
- Permalink
I just hate it where user reviews say one has to understand French humor, sensibility or French cinema to write apologist for a botched french film.
This film is just terrible -- and it was panned by French critics and a FLOP in France.
This film is just terrible -- and it was panned by French critics and a FLOP in France.
- random-70778
- 5 ago 2019
- Permalink