Le papillon
- 2002
- Tous publics
- 1h 25m
This is the story of a young girl named Elsa who was raised by a single mother (Isabelle) in the city. Isabelle and Elsa begin the film moving in next door to an elderly man who collects but... Read allThis is the story of a young girl named Elsa who was raised by a single mother (Isabelle) in the city. Isabelle and Elsa begin the film moving in next door to an elderly man who collects butterflies (Julien). Isabelle who "spends a lot of time with her friends" does not pay much ... Read allThis is the story of a young girl named Elsa who was raised by a single mother (Isabelle) in the city. Isabelle and Elsa begin the film moving in next door to an elderly man who collects butterflies (Julien). Isabelle who "spends a lot of time with her friends" does not pay much attention to her daughter who walks home because her mother forgot to pick her up from sch... Read all
- Awards
- 1 win total
- Entomologist
- (as Idwig Stephane)
- Director
- Writer
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Featured reviews
Maybe the symbolism is simple (i.e., the caterpillar becomes a butterfly scenario), but it still resonates and is an important lesson from which we all can and should benefit. Maybe we should all be like the characters in this film who start out flawed, yet find a greater sense of self, worth, and duty.
Do yourself a favor: go buy this movie. I promise you will not be disappointed.
The fact that the underlying storyline has already been brought several times to the big screen, with the same dexterity or not, does not detract from the fact that this film combines all its elements in a mix that positions it above the crowd. Serrault's movies might not all have been of this quality, but in recent years he has certainly managed to bring us several movies where the humane aspect of his characters prevail.
Do not start looking for logical explanations for certain elements of the movie, do not psychoanalyse it and try to find faults... this movie is just like life itself, sometimes logical, sometimes illogical, often random. Just watch, enjoy and get carried away by the witty dialogue. Despite all the adversities one might encounter, it's those little things - how insignificant they may be - that make it worthwhile and helps everyone become the unique individuals we are.
This is a sincere movie suitable for the whole family that manages to stay out of the tear-jerker or kiddy movie categories. Special mention also for the soundtrack! If you liked this you might also want to check out The Malabar Princess.
It is a pleasure to see a child actor who is as natural and believable as Claire Bouanich. I'm guessing she didn't know she was working with a legend -- but maybe she did. Anyway, she more than holds her own with Michel Serrault.
Some of the "life lessons" taught in "The Butterfly" are a little pat. Some of the coincidences are a bit contrived. But that's OK. The beautiful scenery, witty banter between the two leads and the lessons they learn from each other make up for any deficiencies. Sometimes what we need or want most in our lives really is right under our noses. This movie is a gentle reminder of that basic truth. Very sweet and endearing.
Did you know
- TriviaClaire Bouanich's debut.
- SoundtracksLe Papillon
Performed by Michel Serrault and Claire Bouanich
Composed by Nicolas Errèra
Lyrics by Philippe Muyl
© 2002 Editions Les Notes qui s'aiment et Aliceleo
- How long is The Butterfly?Powered by Alexa
Details
Box office
- Gross US & Canada
- $227,582
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $31,200
- May 11, 2003
- Gross worldwide
- $6,738,135
- Runtime1 hour 25 minutes
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 1.85 : 1