Romuald et Juliette

Star Review

Made by the director of 3 hommes et un couffin – though thankfully not subjected to a treacly Hollywood remake – this charming comedy succeeds by subverting expectations. The story of a rich man (Daniel Auteuil) having his life changed by a poor woman (Firmine Richard) is not new – only here the woman is a heavy set, black cleaning lady with five children. She redeems his unhappy life not through gamine charms but by saving him from the machinations of his deceitful business partners. Their relationship is based on mutual respect and intelligence rather than superficial physical attraction and flirty one-liners, and as a result the audience roots for this unconventional couple even more.

Much of the humour derives from the scenes where Auteuil hides out at her cramped house, and in one of the most touching interludes he bonds with her most wayward son. The performances are perfectly judged, especially Richard in her debut film (she would go on to play the only black character in 8 Women), and a jazzy blues soundtrack complements the action beautifully.

Alex Davidson on 17th August 2007

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Film Description

Aka Mama, There's a Man in your Bed. Auteuil plays the president of a yoghurt company threatened by a food-poisoning scandal. When he thinks he has no-one left to turn to, he discovers Juliette, a cleaning lady with five children from five different ex-husbands, and with whom he falls in love. Perfectly sweet, light comedy.

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Film Details

Cast

Daniel Auteuil, Firmine Richard, Pierre Vernier, Maxime Leroux

Technical Details