O Pretendente

Recently, Turner Classic Movies showed a bunch of films by Pierre Étaix--the first time they've been seen in this country in decades. Because the films have been tied up in legal disputes, most Americans have no idea who Étaix is--and I was quite curious. So, I recorded them and have watched them over the last few weeks. "The Suitor" is the last of his films they showed--and so I have come to the conclusion that his films, for me, are only modestly funny. If you like the films of Jacques Tati (which I don't), then you'll probably like the droll films of Pierre Étaix.

When the film begins, you see that Pierre is a nerdy guy who spends most of his times studying astronomy. His parents are concerned--he's getting older and should settle down and get married. The problem is that he is socially inept--though he is willing. Throughout much of the film, the character wanders about Paris--watching men picking up women and then he tries to imitate them. In every case, it's a disaster and I really, really liked the lipstick bit. However, some of the subplots went on WAY too long--particularly the obnoxious lady who laughs too loudly. Much of the film was very subtle and done much like a silent movie--but she didn't fit in at all. A little of her might have worked--using her as much as they did was, in my opinion, a mistake. She was funny but after a while she was just annoying--and NOT in a good way.

For me, this is a decent film but one that didn't excite me. However, it is important to note that many people LOVE Jacques Tati and Jerry Lewis--and these folks would probably love this film.