In Cinemas July 18th
Starring John Malkovich & Fanny Ardant
French Subtitles
Straight from the pages of Gilles Legardinier’s international hit novel, Complètement Cramé!—translated into 17 languages and sold over a million copies across 22 countries—comes an enchanting romantic comedy-drama starring the incomparable John Malkovich and French screen icon Fanny Ardant.
Malkovich takes on the role of the charming British businessman, Andrew Blake, who is still grieving the death of his beloved wife. In a twist of fate, Blake becomes the butler of the Domaine de Beauvillier estate, owned by the graceful and aloof Madame de Beauvillier (Ardant).
Once a distinguished manor house, the estate is now a shadow of its former self, with rooms, staff, and residents all longing for better days. The arrival of this very British guest ignites their zest for living, prompting them to start working together to restore the manor’s former beauty. The result is a new lease on life for the Domaine de Beauvillier estate and everyone living on it.
This film is quiet, simple, and sweet in its storytelling. Watching Malkovich, I found myself more engaged as the film progressed. Malkovich has commented on why he chose to do this film, noting that he was attracted to the role of Mr. Blake because it allowed him to portray a normal man with a sensitive side, rather than the usual parts he is given.
“I first savoured the story, the humour, the evolution of each character, the feelings, the fine details, the interactions and I felt close to the character on many levels,” Malkovich said. “Playing the entire film in French is one of the points of Gilles’ project that tempted me. I acted more in French for his film than in the rest of my filmography combined! It was enormous work, a great challenge, but also a pleasure. I like to work. I was determined to reach my maximum in this language. If I didn’t do it on this film, then I never would. French occupies a special place in my home, for personal reasons, but also because it is the only language I speak other than English. I directed three plays in France, in Paris, including Les Liaisons Dangereuses. I love your language, and when I say that it’s a lot of work, that’s simplistic because it’s above all a lot of pleasure. It’s not easy, but it’s not painful!”
The film has moments of humour, though some parts may feel dragged out. Overall, it is light, touching entertainment set against the great landscapes of its location and the magnificent house.
