Review of Priceless (2006) by Robert D — 26 Jul 2008

The film's premise is amusing, if slightly tired. A hapless waiter, Jean (Elmaleh), working at a luxurious Riviera hotel, is mistaken by a "working girl", Irene (Tautou), for a wealthy guest when, late one night, she finds him alone in the hotel bar. Her current sugar-daddy has become tiresome and she is on the prowl for new prey.

Jean is instantly smitten and doesn't think twice about allowing the deception to continue. He arranges a room for himself and has to tread delicately as he balances his real job and his fake identity.

The game is soon up and she is quickly on her way out the door in search of fresh meat. However, their paths soon cross again. Jean is mistaken, yet again, by a wealthy older woman who sees him as a sexy young gigolo. Soon, he is in the same profession as Irene, the true love of his life. Both Jean and Irene compete with each other as they work their targets. The film chuckles its way to a typically romantic conclusion.

The performances from the two leads were good, I should also highlight a small, but noteworthy role by Annelise Hesme, star of the Nicole & Papa Clio commercials (I knew I recognized her face so had to find out who she was.

The film is not especially brilliant... It is cute and amusing and nothing more. Still, I enjoyed my time with it and think that it will be a crowd favorite. I was reminded of "Pretty Woman" and "When Harry Met Sally" in terms of its mixture of humor and romance. "Hors de Prix" (Priceless) is a very nice effort and gosh Tautou is very pretty which helps with the overall enjoyment of the movie.