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Je t’aime ‘2 Days in Paris’

Written by Sarah Quallen - Argonaut

Tuesday, 19 February 2008

One of Americans’ favorite stereotypes of France is its romance, so a French romantic comedy should be an easy sell.  Julie Delpy’s movie, “2 Days in Paris” offers everything a romantic could look for in a romantic comedy.  Everything, that is, except glitz.  There wasn’t a lot of money thrown at the movie, but fortunately, it also offers a little more than blissful true love with humorous mishaps and a happy ending. Delpy, who wrote, directed, produced and starred in “2 Days in Paris,” might expect viewers to have some recognition of the reality of love and relationships and to think beyond “happy and pretty things.” The film is strong and there is a hint of even better work to come. Similar both in script and theme to “Before Sunrise” and “Before Sunset,” the story is dialogue heavy and the characters are imperfect and sadly realistic.  After all, part of the reason for watching romantic comedies is to see beautiful people behave perfectly, isn’t it? Although the characters, storyline and pace are somewhat tiring — especially near the end —the movie is entertaining and funny. Delpy plays Marion, a visually impaired French photographer living in New York.  Her long-term boyfriend, Jack, played by the Woody Allen-esque Adam Goldberg, is a hypochondriac who happens to have a sense of humor about his fear. Goldberg manages the character well, though it is reminiscent of his portrayal of Mike in “Dazed and Confused.” The lovers are challenged with having arrived in Paris only to spend time with Marion’s parents after a food-poison-struck trip to Italy. With the appeal of romantic Paris, international love and smart, sexy humor, it’s hard to go wrong— but if you have not seen “Before Sunrise” and “Before Sunset,” both starring Delpy and the second co-written by Delphy — watch them first. Add as favorites (17) | Views: 206 Be first to comment this article Write Comment Please keep the topic of messages relevant to the subject of the article. Personal verbal attacks will be deleted. Please don't use comments to plug your web site. Such material will be removed. Just ensure to *Refresh* your browser for a new security code to be displayed prior to clicking on the 'Send' button. Keep in mind that the above process only applies if you simply entered the wrong security code. Name: Title: Comment: