Alibi.com (2017) Movie Review: A Fun and Quirky French Comedy
Alibi.com (2017), directed by Philippe Lacheau, is a French comedy that combines humor, romance, and clever plot twists. The film offers a lighthearted take on the world of deception and mistaken identities, providing an entertaining experience for audiences. Here’s a detailed review of what makes Alibi.com a delightful comedy.
Plot Summary: Lies, Alibis, and Laughs
The story centers on Greg (played by Philippe Lacheau), a charming and successful entrepreneur who runs a company specializing in creating alibis for people who need to cover up their whereabouts or actions. Greg’s business thrives on helping clients with various deceptions, from fake phone calls to fabricated social media posts.
Greg’s world is turned upside down when he falls for Flo (played by Élodie Fontan), a beautiful and honest woman who is unaware of his shady profession. As Greg’s relationship with Flo becomes more serious, he must navigate the complications of maintaining his double life while keeping his true business a secret.
The plot thickens when Flo’s father, a strict and conservative man, becomes suspicious of Greg. Greg must come up with increasingly elaborate and humorous schemes to keep his alibi business hidden from Flo and her family. The film is filled with comedic misunderstandings, unexpected twists, and laugh-out-loud moments as Greg tries to balance his personal and professional life.
Themes: Deception, Love, and Identity
Alibi.com explores several themes through its comedic narrative:
- Deception: The film delves into the theme of deception, both in the context of Greg’s alibi business and the personal lies that people tell. It highlights how deception can lead to humorous and complicated situations.
- Love: At its core, the film is a romantic comedy that explores the theme of love and the lengths people will go to for the ones they care about. Greg’s efforts to hide his true profession from Flo illustrate the sacrifices people make for love.
- Identity: The film also touches on the theme of identity, particularly in relation to how people present themselves to others. Greg’s dual life serves as a comedic exploration of the tension between one’s public and private personas.
Performances: Charismatic and Comedic
The cast of Alibi.com delivers performances that enhance the film’s comedic appeal:
- Philippe Lacheau: As Greg, Lacheau provides a charismatic and humorous performance. His portrayal of a man juggling multiple lies and deceptions adds to the film’s comedy and charm.
- Élodie Fontan: Fontan’s portrayal of Flo brings warmth and sincerity to the film. Her character serves as the romantic interest and adds emotional depth to the story.
- Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including Tarek Boudali, Julien Arruti, and others, contribute to the film’s humor with their comedic timing and engaging performances. Their roles add to the film’s overall fun and lightheartedness.
Direction and Script: Engaging and Entertaining
Philippe Lacheau’s direction creates a lively and entertaining comedy with a blend of humor, romance, and clever plotting. His approach to storytelling keeps the audience engaged with its fast-paced and witty narrative.
The script, written by Lacheau and his collaborators, effectively combines comedic elements with romantic and dramatic moments. The dialogue is sharp, and the plot developments are designed to elicit laughs and keep the audience entertained.
Cinematography and Music: Bright and Playful
The cinematography of Alibi.com supports the film’s comedic tone with its bright and vibrant visuals. The use of colorful settings and dynamic camera work enhances the film’s playful and energetic atmosphere.
The music, featuring a mix of upbeat and catchy tunes, complements the film’s humor and adds to its overall enjoyment. The soundtrack helps set the tone for the comedic and romantic elements of the story.
Reception and Legacy: A Fun French Comedy
Alibi.com received positive reviews from audiences and critics for its humor and engaging storyline. The film’s ability to blend romance and comedy with clever plot twists has made it a popular choice for fans of French comedy.
The film’s success highlights its appeal as a lighthearted and entertaining comedy that offers a unique take on the theme of deception. Alibi.com remains a standout example of contemporary French comedy with its enjoyable and humorous approach to storytelling.
Where to Watch Alibi.com Online
As of 2024, Alibi.com is available for streaming and digital rental/purchase on several platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & YouTube: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options.
Conclusion
Alibi.com (2017) is a fun and quirky French comedy that combines humor, romance, and clever plot twists. With its charismatic performances, engaging direction, and playful cinematography, the film provides an entertaining and enjoyable experience. Its exploration of deception and love adds depth to the comedy, making it a standout entry in the genre.
