Paulette

Paulette is an irresistibly charming, dramedy, crime-themed film that premiered in 2012. It is a French motion picture directed by the brilliant Jérôme Enrico and backed by a compelling screenplay from Bianca Olsen, Laurie Aubanel, Cyril Rambour, and Jérôme Enrico. The film showcases the extraordinary performances of seasoned actresses like Bernadette Lafont, Carmen Maura, and Dominique Lavanant. Through its brilliant blend of comedy, drama, and crime, the film brings to light some stark social issues while managing to make viewers laugh and ponder at the same time.

The film's main character is Paulette, played by French New Wave veteran Bernadette Lafont in her last leading role before her untimely death in 2013. She instills her character with an uncensored outspokenness and obstinate resilience that easily won the hearts of audiences. Lafont's mesmerizing depiction of Paulette underscores her immense acting prowess. Her characterization of the impoverished and insolent elderly widow who turns to unconventional means to survive her financial struggles smacks complexity and depth.

Paulette lives in a rundown housing project in the suburbs of Paris, subsisting on a meager pension that barely covers her basic needs. That is until circumstances force her into an unorthodox occupation – dealing drugs. A decision largely motivated by her desperate need to stay afloat financially. Lafont's portrayal of the titular character is a blend of humor and cynicism that feels real, bringing out the blend of light-heartedness and reality of the movie.

Carmen Maura and Dominique Lavanant co-star, along with a strong ensemble cast, adding their own flavor to the storyline. Maura plays Maria, Paulette's closest friend – a role performed with ample grace and finesse. Maria serves as a foil to Paulette’s brusqueness, providing a compassionate perspective and offering moral support, if not approval, of her entrepreneurial endeavours in drug dealing.

On the other hand, Lavanant portrays the character of Lucienne, another resident of their housing project who adds a significant twist to the narrative. She exhibits a brilliant performance, setting the tone for the continuation of the comical aspect of the movie. However, underneath the humor, there runs a commentary on deep-seated biases, societal norms, and the effects of poverty. This gives the hilarious comedy a tint of shallowness-free reality that helps it resonate with audiences.

Paulette is replete with numerous unforgettable supporting characters as well. Pierre's role as a police officer is of special note, as are Ousmane, the local drug dealer, and Renee's snobbish daughter Agnes. Each of these characters is carefully crafted to satirically mimic the assorted types of people one might encounter in the contemporary Parisian suburbs.

Director Jérôme Enrico does a stellar job of mixing elements of crime and comedy in the film. Paulette's transition from a law-abiding citizen to a competent drug dealer carries both tension and hilarity within it. The movie manages to maintain its humor without neglecting the harsh realities of life at the lower end of the economic scale. Paulette, equipped with her exceptional resourcefulness and resilience, makes a strong statement about survival in difficult circumstances.

Furthermore, the neighborhood setting, where the story unfolds, paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by its inhabitants and the camaraderie they share, which sustains them through their daily hardships. Paulette does not shy away from portraying the racism, xenophobia, and poverty that permeate these communities. Ironically it presents these issues in a way that adds depth to the character’s motivations, making them appear more human and relatable.

The musical score of Paulette too comprises another of its highlights. Composed by Michel Ochowiak, it seamlessly blends with the atmosphere of the film. It beautifully underscores Paulette's eccentric personality and the comic absurdity of her situation.

The film presents an atypical protagonist whose journey of survival, though fraught with morally questionable choices, is ultimately a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. It's a heartwarming portrayal of a woman who refuses to be curtailed by circumstances and will do whatever it takes to maintain her dignity. This narrative combined with outstanding performances, dark humor, and social commentary makes Paulette an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave you laughing, reflecting, and appreciating the will to survive under the most challenging conditions.