Review of The Intouchables (2011) by Ana B — 19 May 2013

Buddie movie based in true facts. French millionaire Philippe is paralyzed from the neck down due to a parachuting accident but lives a comfortable life in Paris. Tired of the pity he sees in everyone's eyes he takes the gamble of hiring a compassionless street wise crook as a carer. Philippe is attracted to Driss down-to-Earth attitude and sense of humour and surprisingly the two of them become good friends.

This is a touching melodrama about an unlikely friendship. Two almost opposite individuals meet, share experiences and learn from each other. The film is heart warming and uplifting without becoming unlikely; it hits the right notes with a story that could have become, otherwise, overly sweet. It is well directed and brilliantly acted by two artists that gave their characters a funny and realistic edge. Perhaps the best feature of the film is the final message about the power of positive thinking and humor, it puts you in a good mood and you reach the conclusion that life is not quite so bad, even for a paraplegic man or a homeless felon. Don't miss it, it will charm you.