Bertrand Usclat and Martin Darondeau's Comédie Française disproves the notion that French sex comedies are never funny, delivering a farce that is a hoot, albeit one not preoccupied with sex.
Set in the Parisian institution
The film unfolds entirely within the Parisian theatre of the title, over the three hours before the opening night curtain rises on a production of Macbeth. Nina (Pauline Clément), an actor turned director, faces a series of catastrophes that call into question whether the show will go on, starting with her arrival at the entrance without her staff pass and her struggle to get past the officious security team.
Nina must contend with superstitious actors, adulterous actors who rehearse while having sex (saying their lines between thrusts), a stoned grande dame (Danièle Lebrun), missing actors (Lady Macbeth is stranded in Brest while shooting a TV show), and actors who understand their roles less than the usher (Sefa Yeboah) watching from the sidelines.
Technical problems and a minister's visit
If there is a technical problem, the stage manager (Christian Hecq) explains in tedious detail why it cannot be fixed, while the wardrobe mistress (Florence Viala) discusses her colleagues' bodily imperfections. The minister of culture is coming that evening to see the show.
Nina must not only take over the role of Lady Macbeth, but her former partner also dumps their toddler on her before the show starts, prompting a debate about women juggling careers and motherhood. This is less persuasive, and some viewers may be baffled as to why the production only seems to have six or seven actors for a traditional version of Macbeth.
Comic timing and luvvies
The film's charm lies in the performers' immaculate comic timing and the endearing portrait of French luvvies ensuring the show must go on. Comédie Française is in UK and Irish cinemas from 9 October.
