The French Way is a romantic comedy released in 1940, directed by Jacques de Baroncelli and featuring a talented cast that include Lucien Baroux, Micheline Presle, and Saturnin Fabre. The movie is set in Paris and revolves around the life of a young woman named Joan (Presle) who is a talented cabaret dancer at the famous Moulin Rouge. Joan is adored by her many suitors, but she is secretly in love with her ex-lover, Michel (Fabre).
Michel, a cabaret singer, has been trying to win Joan back but has been unsuccessful due to his habit of drinking heavily. Meanwhile, Joan's mother Mme. Maverty (Menthe) is trying to arrange a marriage between her daughter and the wealthy and respectable Baron de Grantange (Baroux).
Despite her mother's insistence, Joan is determined to marry Michel and not the Baron. Michel's drinking problem, however, complicates matters, and Joan's mother is equally determined to keep Michel away from her daughter.
As its title suggests, The French Way celebrates the spirit of France and the Parisian way of life. The film showcases the elegant and sophisticated charm of the city of Paris, with its beautiful landmarks, picturesque boulevards, and stylish cafes.
The movie features several musical numbers that showcase the talents of Presle and Fabre, including the popular French song "Avoir un Bon Copain." The musical numbers are used to express the feelings of the characters and to move the story forward.
At its core, The French Way is a comedy of errors that explores the dynamics of love, family, and societal norms. The relationship between Joan and Michel is contrasted with the relationship between the Baron and Mme. Maverty, illustrating the difference between love and societal expectations.
The movie also explores the role of gender in relationships, with Mme. Maverty being portrayed as the archetypical mother who wants the best for her daughter, but who is also constrained by the expectations of society. Joan, on the other hand, is presented as a young woman who is determined to forge her own path in life, despite the obstacles in her way.
The French Way was released during a time of social and political upheaval in France, as the country was preparing for war. The movie was a reflection of the anxieties of the era, but it also served as a form of escapism for audiences in France and around the world.
The film is also notable for its cast, which includes several of the most respected actors of the time. Lucien Baroux, in particular, steals the show with his portrayal of the Baron, whose comedic timing and aristocratic mannerisms add a touch of hilarity to the movie.
Despite its age, The French Way remains an entertaining and enjoyable film that provides a glimpse into the glamorous world of Parisian nightlife, while also exploring the complexities of love, family, and society. If you're looking for a classic romantic comedy that captures the essence of France and the Parisian way of life, The French Way is an excellent choice.
The French Way is a 1945 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.
