Paulette (2012) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Paulette (2012) is a French comedy film directed by Jérôme Enrico and written by Enrico and Éric Assous. The film stars Bernadette Lafont in one of her final roles before her passing, portraying a retired schoolteacher who turns to a surprising new career path. Set in a small suburban town in France, Paulette combines humor with social commentary, creating an engaging and heartfelt story about reinvention and resilience.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, characters, and themes, and provide information on where to stream or rent Paulette online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
The film follows Paulette (Bernadette Lafont), a retired schoolteacher who is struggling to make ends meet after her husband’s death. Faced with financial difficulties and feeling disconnected from her family, Paulette decides to make a drastic change in her life. She begins selling cannabis to local dealers and users, initially out of desperation but soon finding unexpected satisfaction and success in her new venture.
As Paulette delves deeper into the world of drug dealing, she encounters a colorful cast of characters and finds herself navigating a series of humorous and often poignant situations. Her newfound role not only helps her financially but also reawakens a sense of purpose and excitement in her life.
Characters and Performances
Bernadette Lafont stars as Paulette, delivering a remarkable performance that balances humor and depth. Lafont’s portrayal captures Paulette’s transformation from a disillusioned retiree to a savvy and resilient entrepreneur. Her performance is central to the film’s charm and effectiveness, showcasing her skill as an actress.
Catherine Jacob plays Paulette’s daughter, who is initially dismayed by her mother’s unconventional new job. Jacob’s performance adds emotional depth to the film, highlighting the familial tensions and dynamics at play.
French actors such as Nicolas Vaude, Warren Zavatta, and Clémentine Célarié also contribute to the film’s vibrant ensemble cast, each adding to the humor and complexity of Paulette’s new world.
Themes and Atmosphere
Paulette explores themes of reinvention, resilience, and the search for purpose. The film highlights how unexpected opportunities can lead to personal growth and renewed confidence. Paulette’s journey reflects the idea that it is never too late to reinvent oneself and find new meaning in life.
The atmosphere of the film is light-hearted and comedic, with moments of genuine emotion and insight. The film’s blend of humor and social commentary creates a balanced and engaging viewing experience.
Cinematic Style and Appeal
Jérôme Enrico’s direction brings a mix of humor and heart to the film, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The screenplay, co-written by Enrico and Éric Assous, combines comedic elements with social commentary, making it a well-rounded and engaging film.
The film’s visual style is straightforward and functional, focusing on character-driven storytelling and dialogue. The setting of the film—a suburban town in France—serves as a backdrop for Paulette’s transformation, adding to the film’s relatable and down-to-earth appeal.
Where to Watch Paulette (2012) Online
For those interested in watching Paulette, here’s where you can find the film available for streaming or rental in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video – Paulette may be available to stream with an additional subscription to the service, depending on licensing agreements.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes – Available for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Vudu – The film is available for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
Why Paulette is Worth Watching
Paulette (2012) offers a unique and humorous take on personal reinvention and resilience. Bernadette Lafont’s performance is both compelling and charming, driving the film’s narrative and emotional impact. The film’s combination of comedy and social commentary makes it an engaging and thought-provoking watch.
For viewers who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of humor and heart, Paulette provides a refreshing and entertaining experience. The film’s exploration of reinvention and the pursuit of purpose makes it a standout entry in the genre.
Conclusion
Paulette (2012) is a delightful and engaging film that combines humor with a poignant exploration of personal transformation. With its strong performances, particularly by Bernadette Lafont, and its blend of comedy and social insight, the film offers a memorable and enjoyable viewing experience.
For U.S. viewers, Paulette is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and can be rented or purchased on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Whether you’re interested in a heartwarming comedy or a story of personal reinvention, Paulette is a worthwhile choice for an entertaining film night.
