Woody Allen’s latest film, “Coup de Chance,” is a delightful departure from his usual English-language fare, as it takes place entirely in France and is spoken in French. The film follows the story of Fanny Fournier, a sophisticated woman living in Paris who finds herself entangled in an affair with an old school friend, Alain.
The film is a mix of comedy and drama, with a touch of existential worries and jaundiced observations about life. Fanny, played by Lou de Laâge, is a complex character who is both intelligent and attractive, navigating the complexities of her haut bourgeois bubble with grace. When she embarks on an affair with Alain, played by Niels Schneider, her world is turned upside down, leading to a cascade of dramatic events.
As the affair unfolds, Fanny’s husband, Jean, played by Melvil Poupaud, begins to suspect her infidelity, shifting the focus of the story towards him. The film explores themes of control, desire, and the consequences of our actions, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful French countryside.
With a talented cast and stunning cinematography by Vittorio Storaro, “Coup de Chance” is a visually captivating film that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Despite some muted jokes and a more sketched-in plot, the film is a technically adept and professionally made movie that is sure to entertain audiences.
For fans of Woody Allen’s work, “Coup de Chance” offers a fresh take on familiar themes, with a French twist that adds an extra layer of intrigue. Rated PG-13 for gun violence, the film is in French with subtitles and has a running time of 1 hour and 33 minutes. Catch it in theaters for a cinematic experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
