ZEE'S REVIEWS

17th July 2009
Amelie (2001)

When a movie is as universally praised as Amelie, with no shortage of glittering adjectives strewn at its feet, it is natural to wonder whether it can possibly live up to its reputation. But with Amelie, I was not disappointed. It is indeed tempting to use words like 'flawless' and 'gem' to describe it, because that's what it feels like--something lovingly crafted by expert hands.

The original title was Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain, which is very appropriate. From the opening scene, of a magically shot street in Montmartre, and the opening narration, which is wry and humorous, it feels like we are being carried away on a fabulous journey into a quirky yet charming world. This is perhaps what Pushing Daisies aspired to be; but while Pushing Daisies was as saccharine as treacle pudding, Amelie is as delicate as a feather sponge.

Our eponymous heroine was an odd, isolated child, who has grown up into an odd, isolated young woman. Amelie has a vivid imagination and a unique viewpoint on life, always watching and observing, but only from the outside. Her life changes when a chance discovery inspires her into an act of kindness for a stranger. Upon seeing the impact she has, she begins her campaign to change the world around her, conspiring to render happiness or deliver punishment to people according to their deserts, little realising that eventually her deeds will circle around to change her own world.

This is a thoroughly enjoyable movie, with many delightful moments of anticipation and satisfaction. Audrey Tautou shines as Amelie, and it is hard to imagine anyone else being able to pull off that mixture of childlike curiosity and devious cunning. The whole film comes together beautifully, a gorgeous fable and love story, about finding the courage to stop being an observer, to make connections with other people, and to seize life with both hands.