Is there a better way to see in the festive season, than with a gorgeous and uplifting French film? Perhaps not. Last year it was The Bélier Family, this year the choice should be Rosalie Blum. Although the premise seems a little odd – a dull young hairdresser begins stalking an older greengrocer – this film is equal parts sad and inspiring, resulting in a charming viewing experience.
Vincent (Kyan Khojandi) has a hairdressing salon; he inherited the business from his late father. His mother lives in the apartment above him; she is a demanding bully. His relationship is over, although Vincent seems to be the last to realise this, his girlfriend having not visited him from Paris in many months. When his mother demands additional supplies for a special lunch, Vincent ventures to a grocer he has not previously frequented. Here he meets Rosalie Blum (Noemie Lvovsky).
Seeing something special in Rosalie, Vincent begins to stalk her. He follows her to her home, on her walks, to the cinema, to her local bar in the evening for drinks. Vincent begins to adopt her tastes, buying CDs and collecting movie posters, as he is exposed to new things he has never before shown an interest in. Little does he know, his activity has been noticed by Rosalie. Indeed, she has taken up surveillance of her own. Enlisting her niece Aude (Alice Isaaz), Rosalie sets about to find out what Vincent is up to. Aude and her friends prove to be a little more discreet than Vincent, but it is inevitable that they will all eventually be caught out.
Rosalie Blum takes a chapter like structure in the narrative, which allows for gentle and interesting progression of the film. With such a structure, we are allowed insights from varying perspectives, a device which gives depth to what could otherwise seem like a frivolous story. There are many moments when this is a sad film, but equally it is very funny. Director Julien Rappeneau manages a fine balance, maintaining a tenderness for his subject without compromising on interest.
The film is comprised of excellent performances from well cast individuals. These are not the glamorous stars of a Hollywood number; they are interesting and expressive. The actors engage with the characters they are portraying and illicit a genuine affection in the audience. This might seem obvious, but it is proving harder to come by in light-hearted films.
Rosalie Blum proves simplicity is key. There are no elaborate settings or locations (although good use is made of a small alligator), just simple small-town France. When a script is good and the cast are talented, there is little else to do but get on with the show. No need to stray into the elaborate, just stick to the basics. This is a very enjoyable, funny film.
Rosalie Blum is in cinemas from 26th December through Palace Films.
