Driving Madeleine (2022) Comedy Movie Review
Dany Boon, an actor and filmmaker, is known for portraying relatable characters in French cinema. In this movie, we first see him confidently driving a taxi out of a car wash, assuring us that we're in for a good ride. He plays Charles, a taxi driver facing financial troubles and the risk of losing his license. With a light beard and a consistently furrowed brow, Charles takes pride in his job. When a bossy French executive tries to dictate his route, Charles dismisses the orders, asserting, "You do your job, and I'll do mine."
Charles receives a call offering him a lucrative fare that requires a trip across Paris and back. He's told to switch on his meter as he heads to pick up the passenger, who turns out to be Madeleine, played by Line Renaud, a singer in her 90s with a surprising stint on the American sitcom “Silver Spoons” in her showbiz history. Madeleine, moving from her long-time home to assisted care, insists on taking the scenic route, setting the stage for potential life lessons.
While "Driving Madeleine" does deliver these lessons, the film, created by writer and director Christian Carion, goes beyond simple sentimentality. Carion, known for his 2005 film “Joyeux Noel,” skillfully weaves 20th-century history into the narrative. As Charles reluctantly listens to Madeleine's stories, we sense her mission to open up his world. Recognizing his troubles, Madeleine advises, “Anger ages you,” prompting Charles to relax a bit.
%20Comedy%20Movie.jpg "Driving Madeleine (2022) Comedy Movie")
While Madeleine comes across as pleasant and kind, her stories reveal her resilience. She marries a troublesome man named Ray, who mistreats both her and the child. Madeleine recalls that in those days, divorce for domestic violence was not an option. Young Madeleine, skillfully portrayed by Alice Isaaz, finds herself compelled to take drastic measures with significant consequences. As the film subtly incorporates contemporary Paris landmarks, it navigates through events like May '68 and the Vietnam War without being too heavy-handed.
In the present day, Madeleine cleverly helps Charles escape a potential traffic violation that could jeopardize his livelihood. Their unlikely friendship grows to the point where the financially struggling Charles even postpones insisting on immediate payment for the substantial fare after the ride. This sets the stage for a conclusion that, while not surprising, feels fitting and satisfying.