Synopsis
Fanny and Jean, a married couple in Paris, seemingly have it all - financial security, fulfilling careers, and a strong social standing. However, when Fanny reconnects with Alain, an old classmate, a passionate affair ignites, filling a void in her life. Jean, suspicious of his wife’s changed behavior, embarks on a dangerous plan to uncover the truth.
What I Liked
- I will always enjoy a movie where human relationships are the protagonists. Woody Allen continues to deliver that grace and simplicity that I have learned to enjoy and appreciate.
- Although it is a story set in modern times, the way it is presented has a simplicity and fluidity that seems old-fashioned. It gives me the impression that it could be a tribute to the dynamics of the most classic French cinema.
- The characters of Jean and Camille, Fanny’s mother, are undoubtedly the ones that stand out the most and provoke, in my opinion, the best narrative successes. The role of the ruthless but silent betrayed husband contrasts with great tension with the investigative and distrustful attitude of his mother-in-law.
What Could Be Better
- The movie’s setting and language are its only novel aspects; the usual witty dialogue and innovative plot are missing, which is disappointing for a Woody Allen film.
- Unlike other Woody Allen movies that transport viewers to captivating locales, Coup de Chance doesn’t offer the same immersive experience, despite its meant to be celebration of France.
- The central couple, Fanny and Alain, lack the charisma and depth needed to engage the audience in their risky affair; their roles feel insignificant.
My Insight
I always anticipate a clever story, interesting characters, and a sense of discovery that leaves me feeling very enthusiastic when I come across a Woody Allen film. Coup de Chance only partially fulfills these expectations; it feels like it was commissioned by a production company and gives off the vibe of Woody Allen’s First French Film. Sadly, I had a very similar impression with “The Room Next Door” Almodovar’s first English film, a few weeks ago. It feels different, lacking, and forced.
I usually prefer simple movies to complex and long-developed plots. However, with Coup de Chance, it feels like it didn’t attempt to do anything remarkable and was simply a way to make a “new project.” Perhaps next time I should just focus on enjoying the wonderful adventures of the past. There are more than enough to see again and again.
Rating ⭐6/10
Coup de Chance lacked the usual heart and artistry expected from a Woody Allen film. It felt more like a commissioned work, and while enjoyable, it didn’t live up to expectations.
Extras
My Top 5 Woody Allen Movies, as of today.
- Manhattan (1979). Dir. Woody Allen
- Annie Hall (1977). Dir. Woody Allen
- Hannah and her sisters (1986). Dir. Woody Allen
- Husbands and Wives (1992) Dir. Woody Allen
- Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) Dir. Woody Allen
For Discussion
Woody Allen is undeniably a director with a distinctive style, and as viewers, we anticipate this in his work. However, time changes us all. Age may temper satire and craziness, and perhaps, the drive to push boundaries diminishes. This makes in a way the artist more relatable, more human, with life’s inevitable highs and lows. So, why I am so disappointed?
Do we crave the extraordinary, the feeling of being privileged to experience life, or do we simply demand everything we can? It’s a combination of these, but I believe that in all endeavors - projects, relationships, work, friendships - there are well-intentioned people who sometimes fall short. And that’s acceptable. We can continue to hope and strive for better things no matter what.
Technical Details
Release Date: 2023
Director and Screenwriter: Woody Allen
Cinematography: Vittorio Storaro
Starring: Lou de Laâge, Valérie Lemercier, Melvil Poupaud, Niels Schneider
Runtime: 1 hour 33 minutes
Distributor: Metropolitan Filmexport (France)
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
Where to Watch: Cinemas, if any. Soon on Streaming
