My Old Lady

My Old Lady is a poignant and endearing 2014 comedy-drama which merges the subtlety of French cinema with the vibrancy of American storytelling. The film is an adaptation of Israel Horovitz’s successful play of the same name, set in the heart of one of the most enchanting cities in the world, Paris. Israel Horovitz not only impressively adapts his own play for the big screen but also makes his directorial debut with this film.

Starring an ensemble cast led by Kevin Kline, Maggie Smith, and Kristin Scott Thomas, My Old Lady tells the story of Mathias Gold (played by Kevin Kline), a down-on-his-luck New Yorker who travels to Paris to liquidate a huge, valuable apartment he has inherited from his estranged father. Kline expertly portrays the character with a blend of humor and humanity. Caught in a sprawling city and without the ability to speak French, Mathias is every bit the fish out of water, and yet shows resilience and determination.

However, the film reveals a peculiar French property clause known as "viager," which allows the previous owner—the formidable and cunning, yet charming, 90-year-old Mathilde Girard, portrayed by the legendary Maggie Smith—to continue living there until her death. Here Smith turns in a nuanced performance that captures Mathilde's formidable wit, weathered resilience, and deep-seated melancholy. Mathilde has been living in the apartment with her daughter, Chloé (played by Kristin Scott Thomas), who is initially distrusting and hostile toward Mathias. Scott Thomas infuses her character with simultaneous strength and vulnerability, as the complexities of Chloé's relationship with her mother and the past become evident.

The comedy-drama unfolds as Mathias realizes that not only is he obliged to allow Mathilde to continue to reside in the apartment, but he must also pay her a fee until her passing. At odds with this tricky situation, Mathias becomes more entangled in the lives of Mathilde and Chloé. As he grapples with his predicament, Mathias embarks on an unexpected journey of self-discovery, healing, and redemption. The screenplay infuses humor and warmth amid the reflections and introspections of its characters, providing a finely balanced and engaging viewing experience.

The crux of My Old Lady lies in its intricately woven storytelling, evoking alternating bouts of laughter and melancholy with its emotional depth and poignant humor. The script skillfully handles the complexities of the characters and their relationships, as secrets from the past gradually unfold affecting the lives of Mathias, Mathilde, and Chloé. It is a story of acceptance, forgiveness, and the search for identity and belonging.

Set against the backdrop of Paris, the city becomes an unspoken character in the narrative, threading its charm and beauty within the progression of the plot. The cinematography beautifully captures the labyrinthine, vintage cityscape of Paris, along with the stately grandeur of the apartment itself. The historical architecture of the apartment becomes a symbolic canvas representing history, secrets, and the passage of time.

My Old Lady, with its intriguing plot and power-packed performances, never loses sight of its central theme – the exploration of life's second chances and the possibility of newfound hope even amidst challenging circumstances. The film’s balanced narrative keeps you enthralled and invested in the characters as they navigate the complexities of life, relationships, and an unusual real estate predicament. This film is a resounding treat for those who enjoy nuanced drama fused with subtle comedy, solid performances, and character-driven storytelling.