Hibernatus (1969) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Hibernatus (1969) is a French comedy film directed by Édouard Molinaro, known for his work on La Cage aux Folles. The film stars Louis de Funès, one of France’s most celebrated comic actors, alongside Claude Gensac and Marie-José Nat. Hibernatus is a comedic take on the concept of suspended animation and its humorous implications when a frozen man is thawed out in the modern era.
This review will explore the film’s plot, direction, performances, and its availability for online viewing.
Plot Summary
Hibernatus centers around a man named Paul Fournier (Louis de Funès), who discovers that his late father-in-law, who was presumed dead for decades, is actually alive but in a state of suspended animation. The man, a wealthy industrialist, was frozen in a cryogenic state and is accidentally revived in the present day.
Upon waking, the elderly man, who is now in perfect health, finds himself in a world that has drastically changed from the one he knew. His return to life brings a series of comedic mishaps and cultural clashes as he tries to adapt to the modern world, while his family, including Paul, struggles to deal with the bizarre situation. The film explores the humorous consequences of the elderly man’s revival and the chaos it brings to the Fournier family.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Édouard Molinaro directs Hibernatus with a light-hearted and comedic approach, capturing the film’s humorous premise and the absurdity of its situations. Molinaro’s direction emphasizes the comedic elements and the interaction between characters, using physical humor and witty dialogue to drive the story.
The cinematography, by Jean-Louis Picavet, complements the film’s comedic tone with its straightforward and functional style. The visual approach supports the film’s comedic elements, focusing on the actors’ performances and the humorous situations they find themselves in.
Molinaro’s direction ensures that the film maintains a lively pace, with a series of comedic set pieces and misunderstandings that keep the audience entertained. The film’s humor is largely derived from the cultural clash and the protagonist’s attempts to navigate a new world.
Performances
- Louis de Funès delivers a memorable performance as Paul Fournier, showcasing his talent for physical comedy and his ability to convey frustration and exasperation. De Funès’s energetic and expressive performance is a highlight of the film, providing much of its humor and charm.
- Claude Gensac plays the role of Christiane Fournier, Paul’s wife, who is caught between the chaos caused by her father’s return and her own domestic challenges. Gensac’s performance adds warmth and a touch of comedy to the film, complementing de Funès’s role.
- Marie-José Nat portrays the character of the younger woman involved in the unfolding drama. Nat’s performance adds to the film’s humor and contributes to the comedic situations.
Themes Explored
Hibernatus explores several comedic themes:
- Cultural Clash: The film delves into the humor arising from the clash between the past and the present. The elderly man’s struggle to adapt to modern society provides the basis for many comedic situations.
- Family Dynamics: The film examines the impact of an unexpected family reunion on the dynamics within a household. The return of the elderly man creates a series of misunderstandings and complications for the Fournier family.
- Time and Change: The concept of suspended animation and the passage of time are central to the film’s plot. The humorous exploration of how someone from the past deals with the changes in the present adds to the film’s comedic appeal.
Criticism
While Hibernatus is celebrated for its humor and the performance of Louis de Funès, some critics have noted that the film’s comedic approach can feel dated. The humor, which relies on physical comedy and cultural misunderstandings, may not resonate as strongly with contemporary audiences.
Additionally, the film’s plot, while entertaining, follows a familiar formula and may lack the depth of more complex comedies. The humor derived from the cultural clash can sometimes be predictable.
Where to Watch Hibernatus (1969) Online
Subscription Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video
Hibernatus may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Check the platform for current availability and access options.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. This option allows viewers to rent the film for a specific period or buy it for permanent access. - Apple TV
Hibernatus may be available for rental or purchase on Apple TV. This platform provides convenient access if you prefer using Apple devices. - Google Play Movies
Google Play Movies offers Hibernatus for rental or purchase. The platform supports streaming on various devices, including Android phones and smart TVs. - YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies provides options to rent or buy Hibernatus. Streaming through YouTube offers flexibility across a range of devices. - Vudu
Vudu may offer Hibernatus for rental or purchase. The platform supports high-definition streaming and is compatible with various devices.
Conclusion
Hibernatus (1969) is a charming and humorous film featuring the comedic talents of Louis de Funès. Directed by Édouard Molinaro, the film provides an entertaining exploration of the concept of suspended animation and the comedic possibilities it presents.
For fans of classic French comedy and those looking for a light-hearted film, Hibernatus offers a delightful viewing experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to enjoy this classic comedy from the comfort of your home.
