Diane Has the Right Shape

Diane Has the Right Shape (Diane a les épaules) is a 2017 French romantic comedy film directed by Fabien Gorgeart, starring the talented Clotilde Hesme, Fabrizio Rongione, and Thomas Suire.

At the heart of the movie is the charismatic protagonist Diane, mesmerizingly performed by the multi-talented and Cesar-winner Clotilde Hesme. Diane is an independent and strong-willed woman who values her autonomy above all else. Despite her vast array of eccentricities, Diane is depicted not as a misfit, but as an individual whose spirit and independence are inspirations, widening the boundaries ordained by society’s conventions.

Diane’s life takes a dramatic turn when she agrees to act as a surrogate for her close friends, Thomas and Jacques, played by Fabrizio Rongione and Thomas Suire respectively. This decision starts her on a journey that is both hilarious and heartwarming, as Diane navigates through the complexities of life, relationships, and impending motherhood.

As the narrative unfolds, the audience is introduced to Thomas and Jacques' domestic life, and Diane's connection with them is pronouncedly explored. However, it's not just about a surrogate pregnancy, but about what it means to be a friend and, above all, what it means to be a parent. While the subject could be a sensitive one, director Fabien Gorgeart handles it with deftness and a touch of humor that lifts the atmosphere.

Central to Diane Has the Right Shape is the theme of unconventional families and parenthood. But the narrative never forces a moral lesson onto the viewer. Instead, it offers a snapshot of modern realities painted with tenderness, empathy, and a fair amount of wit.

The Boston Globe describes the film as, "A sweet-natured French comedy with a social conscience," while Le Monde says it's a "first film of a rare elegance, full of a grace that transcends the usual familial conventions." Key to its success is how director Fabien Gorgeart manages to mine humor and humanity out of an unconventional situation without diverting into a sitcom-ish terrain.

Hesme’s performance is truly the heart and soul of the film. She embodies Diane's character convincingly and naturally, delivering one of her finest performances yet. From her initial uninhibited glee to subsequent bouts of uncertainty and vulnerability, Hesme makes Diane's transformation feel organic and believable.

Fabrizio Rongione and Thomas Suire hold their own, contributing to the dynamic chemistry that infuses the film. The duo brilliantly reflects a neat contrast to Hesme's character. They represent a calm and collected, yet anxious and eager-to-be-fathers side of the story, making the narrative even more engrossing.

However, it is not just about the performances; the movie is visually engaging too. The cinematography captures the essence of the characters and their lives beautifully, and the film's pacing is flawless. At the same time, the script is both insightful and witty, providing the perfect blend of drama and comedy while genuinely touching upon the multifaceted aspects of human emotions.

Furthermore, the film successfully underlines the fact that families exist in many forms and what truly matters is love, understanding, and sacrifice. It depicts that relationships, whether they are romantic, friendly, or parental, could come with challenges, but with a sincere approach and a dash of humor, they could be gracefully overcome.

In conclusion, Diane Has the Right Shape is a tender, charming, and touchingly funny movie about the unpredictable turns of life, the complex web of relationships, and the profound experience of motherhood. It is an enjoyable, thought-provoking, and heartwarming film that masterfully explores human connection and the contemporary definition of family. The performances, wit-filled script, delicate handling of the subject, and the striking cinematography make it a must-watch. Whether you're a fan of French cinema or a movie buff in general, this film is an engaging tale that stays with you long after the credits roll.