Dir. Bibo Bergeron, France, 2011, 90 mins.
Cast: voices: Vanessa Paradis, Adam Godberg, Danny Huston, Sean Lennon, Jay Harrington
Review by Carlie Newman
This is the English language version of Bibo Bergeron’s well-directed animated film. Although aimed at the whole family, it would not be suitable for very young children, as there are a few scary scenes. On the other hand slightly older young ones enjoy being scared, so the film is fine for the over 5s.
It is set inParisin 1910. We meet projectionist Emile (Adam Goldberg) who is too timid to express his real feelings of love to Maud (Catherine O’Hara). Emile has a friend called Raoul (Jay Harrington) who drives his delivery van in a very dangerous manner. Jay doesn’t realise that he actually loves his long-term friend, the beautiful nightclub singer, Lucille (Vanessa Paradis), who in turn is being encouraged to respond to the amorous advances of Commissioner Maynott (Danny Huston).
When Raoul drags Emile to a scientist’s house and makes his friend join him in messing around with the various potions lying in the lab, the two accidentally create a giant flea. Forced to join them is the scientist’s pet monkey, Charles, who communicates by showing flash cards. The flea escapes from the lab and wanders aroundParis, scaring all who see him. Finally he arrives at the door of the nightclub, where Lucille works. She takes him in and when she hears him singing, dresses him in a hat, long coat and a mask and calls him Francoeur (Sean Lennon). She takes him on stage and they sing together.
Unfortunately the evil Commissioner sees the giant as something that could win him the post of Mayor in the coming election and makes speeches saying he will ridParisof the Monster. The two friends along with Lucille are caught in the midst of a giant race to save their giant friend.
The film is different from the usual Monster movies, in that this Monster is not scary at all, although his size frightens people. The writing is good and there is some amusing dialogue. Visually it is attractive to watch, although the 3D does not contribute a lot. Because he is a flea, the Monster is able to fly and there are some good views ofParisas Francoeur buzzes around. As is often the case with animated films nowadays, while both Paradis and Lennon sing sweetly, the songs are pretty unremarkable.
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xx - posted on 23/05/2012 13:13:28
