Amelie Review

Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain – Review

Realistically, most people probably wouldn’t be particularly interested in watching a French film, as this, unfortunately, is not what the people of today are used to. Generally cinema today has become about making money rather than making film; some of the most widely popular films may not be classed as top quality, especially in my opinion. I think this is a shame, as Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain is one of the more fantastic films I’ve ever seen and I’m sure any viewer would feel just as amazed as me. I personally do not appreciate a film for its special effects or its action drama, and it’s a shame that other people do look for these qualities in films. Amelie could be enjoyed by anyone, if it is first viewed with an open mind. Rather than sitting on your sofa watching mind-numbing comedy, you should get yourself engrossed in an honestly great movie.

Each character involved in the narrative of Amelie is just as important as the next; if one were to be taken out the movie wouldn’t make sense. This is a skill that I feel many film directors struggle to accomplish, where as Jean-Pierre Jeunet presents his talents very well here. Watching this movie almost feels magical, as though you’re experiencing something completely surreal, mainly due to the Cinema Du Look style that Jeunet uses very effectively, as the film feels as though it is fantasy. The bold colour filters used on every shot create a bold and colourful image which overall gives an uplifting feel to the movie and brings this upon the audience when watching it. Paris is boldly celebrated in this film, or even exaggerated as the representation put across is ideal, and made to look flawless as all graffiti or litter, as would appear in reality, is removed.

Amelie (Audrey Tautou) as a character is hugely endearing, and as a viewer you grow to love her, and even know her as though she is a friend to you. The audience feel as though Amelie is speaking to you personally, or as if she is in the room with you due to the direct address to the camera.