Film review: “The Untouchables"

 di Bianca Breviglieri

The Untouchables is a French comedy-drama film directed by two directors: Olivier Nakache & Éric Toledano. Since its initial release in 2011 The Untouchables was a great success. In fact, it became one of the biggest box office hits in France as well as in other European countries. Additionally, it received several award nominations and won the César Award for Best Actor for Omar Sy, one of the main characters. This film is based on a true story and it presents both comedic and dramatic aspects, which made this film so unique. The Untouchables is about a Frenchman named Philippe (played by François Cluzet) who became a paraplegic following a devastating parachuting accident. His newfound physical disability required him to find a caregiver to assist him. After interviewing several people for this job, Philippe decided to hire a black man named Driss (played by actor Omar Sy). The main reason why Philippe chose Driss was because he was the only one who treated him as a normal person. In fact, Driss, did not allow himself to be affected by Philippe’s physical condition. At the beginning, Driss was really clumsy and sometimes also reckless., In fact, Driss applied for this job only because he was forced by social services to find a job. (he had some troubles with the law). Nevertheless, their relationship became more and more strong after the first days, so much so, that the two started to go out and have fun together and became buddies. The most important aspect in their friendship was that they did things that Philippe would never have thought to do in his condition. It is clear that they helped each other to face life and to find a way to be happy.

I really loved this film because it is funny and light-hearted, but at the same time it made me feel strong emotions and think about problems in life. Moreover, it is important to highlight that it is based on a real story, and for this reason it can be considered as an opportunity to remember how lucky we are and that nothing is impossible, if you strongly believe in it!