Le papillon

This movie features exceptional acting (particularly by the adorable little girl), good writing and does not degenerate to saccharine. Unlike some family films, what occurs in the movie is NOT straight by the numbers, predictable and completely wrapped up in the end--a definite plus for me!

The story is about a cranky old butterfly collector who is pulled into (against his will) the world of a very lonely child. The script says she is 9 years-old, though she appears younger. Usually, I hate child actors/actresses. They often seem to "play the role of a kid" instead of behaving believably. This child, though unusual, seems like a REAL child and her dialog was written by someone who has actually been around kids. What a concept!

This movie is good for all ages. Guys will also like it because although it is a sensitive film, it is not a tear-jerker or a "chick flick"--it's just a nice film written about real people. Hollywood would greatly benefit by learning from this movie's example.

By the way, DON'T turn off the film when the final credits start to roll. Watch and listen--it's an adorable way to end a wonderful film.

I can't remember the last time I watched a movie to the end of the credits and immediately went back to the titles and watched it all over again. I was in need of some cheering up. Parents can watch "The Butterfly" with their children and everyone in the room will enjoy it.

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.

Amazing film, the little girl does a perfect performance. The metamorphosis of the butterfly reflects the changing of the relationships between people within the story. Non-stop jokes, but it maintains its seriousness with lessons about life for adults through the use of an eight year old girl and her uncountably numerous questions. The film is an A film, with a nearly flawless script written by the director. This movie should be up on everyone's must see list and i can easily give it five stars without thinking twice.

Le Papillon is an endearing movie that tugs at your heart as it entertains as well. It is good to see a movie that is not the normal mindless Hollywood dribble. If you walk away not feeling touched in some way by this movie, then you need to go to the wizard and get a heart.

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.

I really love this film! There is a sweetness about it that really makes you smile. I love films where a child and adult are forced to have conversation and how both parties learn from one other. It's not easy to pull off because it depends so much on the balance of the two, the child must be believable, and Claire Bouanich as Elsa is. She kinda reminds me of a young Linsay Lohan (in the Parent Trap). Michel Serrault is, of course wonderful. He played a similar role in Une hirondelle a fait le printemps (The Girl From Paris), a crotchety old man, who wants to be left alone but somehow is won over by a young person, full of energy and life, and full of questions too. I had a very personal connection with this film that I can't explain only that there were scenes in it that made me shiver only because It coincided so much with certain things in my life. If you have children, watch this film. If you don't, you may want them afterwards.