Before I review the film, I should point out that Audrey Tautou does NOT star in this film despite DVD covers that show just her on the cover. In the film, she works at the Venus Beauty Salon but the film actually centers on Nathalie Baye and her rather bizarre life. Ms. Tautou is clearly a supporting actress, but following the amazing success of her film "Amélie", unscrupulous people changed the box art to make it look like it was a starring role for her. For her part, however, he is probably at her most radiant and sensual.
As for the film, it's about period of several months in the life of Baye. Baye plays a middle-aged sexually compulsive woman who loves casual sex but is deeply afraid of a deeper commitment. A strangely compulsive younger man suddenly begins stalking her--announcing that he loves her even though they had never formally met! In the midst of this very screwed up relationship, you see the co-workers in their relationships, though these are never explored in the same depth as Baye's.
If you are looking for some depth or meaning in this film, I sure couldn't find any. While some might see Baye as a "work in progress" and by the end of the film she's finally found happiness, this isn't clearly established and based on her life so far, this seemed unlikely. I certainly hope nobody sees this film and thinks Baye is a role model or even particularly likable. However, it is a well done portrait of a very flawed woman and the acting is very good--just not particularly pleasant.
By the way, there is quite a bit of explicit nudity in this film, as one of the customers is an exhibitionist. Adults should consider this before showing the movie to kids.
As for the film, it's about period of several months in the life of Baye. Baye plays a middle-aged sexually compulsive woman who loves casual sex but is deeply afraid of a deeper commitment. A strangely compulsive younger man suddenly begins stalking her--announcing that he loves her even though they had never formally met! In the midst of this very screwed up relationship, you see the co-workers in their relationships, though these are never explored in the same depth as Baye's.
If you are looking for some depth or meaning in this film, I sure couldn't find any. While some might see Baye as a "work in progress" and by the end of the film she's finally found happiness, this isn't clearly established and based on her life so far, this seemed unlikely. I certainly hope nobody sees this film and thinks Baye is a role model or even particularly likable. However, it is a well done portrait of a very flawed woman and the acting is very good--just not particularly pleasant.
By the way, there is quite a bit of explicit nudity in this film, as one of the customers is an exhibitionist. Adults should consider this before showing the movie to kids.