Paris Manhattan

Paris Manhattan is a charming, romantic comedy film directed by Sophie Lellouche and released in 2012. The story is set in the two iconic cities its title suggests, weaving together elements of love, humor, and youthful passion. The film is a delightful homage to Woody Allen, a renowned American director known for his highbrow comedy and neurotic characters.

The key protagonist is Alice Ovitz, portrayed convincingly by the radiant Alice Taglioni. Alice is an attractive, independent woman in her thirties who works in her family's pharmacy in Paris. She has a deep fascination with Woody Allen and his films, which she considers the ultimate source of answers and philosophical discourse. She even consults Woody's image on a poster in moments of uncertainty and confusion, imagining his responses and advice.

With her fixation on Woody Allen, Alice consistently compares her love life to Allen's cinematic neuroses and relationship dilemmas. Despite her successful career, Alice's love life is at a standstill. Her family, particularly her concerned parents, attempts to intervene, concerned by her singledom and her preoccupation with Woody Allen. They set her up with Pierre (Yannick Soulier), a suitable young man who they believe is perfect for their daughter. Alice reluctantly, yet dutifully, starts a relationship with Pierre, even though the chemistry between them is far from electric.

In a twist of fate, Alice crosses paths with Victor (Patrick Bruel), a pragmatic, somewhat cynical security system contractor who is called to work at the family pharmacy. Victor is a contrast to Alice's Woody Allen-inspired, romantic world view, leading to a multitude of humorous and insightful exchanges between them.

While Alice attempts to line her reality up with Woody Allen's films, Victor is taking a different approach to things. As he begins finding solutions to problems that seem to keep arising at Alice's pharmacy, Victor finds himself inexplicably drawn towards Alice and her world. His efforts to understand her fascination with Woody Allen spin the movie forward, creating a compelling chemistry that questions the line between fantasy and reality.

Marine Delterme stars as Hélène, Alice's loving yet meddling older sister. Concerned by Alice's ongoing single status, Hélène becomes an instrumental part of the push and pull between her sister and Victor, adding an element of family affection and drama to the comedic plot.

The supporting cast, featuring Margaux Châtelier as the cute Sally, Louis-Do de Lencquesaing as Vincent and Michel Aumont as the charming grandfather, enhances the movie's wholesome feel. Their performances lift the story, combined with the memorable setting.

Paris Manhattan is a delightful love letter to the films of Woody Allen, complete with nods to his famous classics. There's an alluring mix of French elegance and the neurotic charm of New York, embodied by the film's locations in Paris and Manhattan. The cinematography and set design showcase the cities' beauty, with the iconic landscape of Manhattan and the unmistakable charm of Paris streets and buzzing cafes.

The movie is also infused with a memorable Woody Allen-esque soundtrack, further emphasizing the homage to Allen’s cinematographic work. An array of Allen's jazz favorites fills the air, creating a charming ambiance and highlighting Alice's unique lifestyle and mindset closer to the audience. Music also serves a symbolic role, bridging connections between scenes, characters, and their emotions.

Apart from its references to Woody Allen, Paris Manhattan also offers a glimpse into the world of a modern French woman navigating her romantic relationships, family expectations, and personal aspirations. It's a tender exploration of romantic entanglement, personal self-discovery, and fantastical fascination, making for an endearing love-story.

Overall, Paris Manhattan is an ideal choice for those who appreciate classic romantic comedies. Its allure lies in its quirkiness, combined with its ensemble cast's excellent performances, striking cinematography, and engaging storytelling. This story about finding love and happiness in unlikely places will leave you feeling uplifted and optimistic. It is a vibrant voyage through the streets of Paris and Manhattan, full of laughter, love, and a dash of Woody Allen!