Safari (2009) Movie Review
Introduction
“Safari,” a 2009 French comedy directed by Olivier Baroux, takes viewers on a wild and humorous adventure through the African savannah. The film stars Kad Merad as Richard Dacier, a hapless tour guide who finds himself in over his head during a disastrous safari trip. This review will explore the plot, characters, reception, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “Safari” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The story follows Richard Dacier (Kad Merad), a down-on-his-luck tour guide operating in South Africa. Unbeknownst to his clients, Dacier hasn’t set foot in the wild for years due to a traumatic incident that left him terrified of the bush. Despite this, he agrees to take a group of French tourists on a safari adventure.
Dacier’s tour group is a motley crew of characters, including a bickering married couple, a shy woman hoping to gain confidence, a wealthy businessman, and a brash young man. As they venture into the African wilderness, everything that can go wrong does go wrong. From vehicle breakdowns to wildlife encounters and getting lost, the group’s journey becomes a comedic disaster.
Throughout the trip, Dacier’s attempts to hide his fear and incompetence lead to increasingly hilarious situations. Along the way, the tourists form unlikely bonds and discover hidden strengths, ultimately learning that the greatest adventures are often the ones you don’t plan.
Characters and Cast
- Richard Dacier (Kad Merad): The main protagonist, a tour guide with a deep fear of the wild, who must overcome his anxieties to lead his group through a chaotic safari.
- Pascale (Valérie Benguigui): One half of a bickering married couple, whose interactions provide much of the film’s humor.
- Louis (Lionnel Astier): Pascale’s husband, whose grumpy demeanor and constant complaints add to the comedic tension.
- Chloé (Frédérique Bel): A shy woman seeking to build her confidence by going on the safari.
- Édouard (David Saracino): A wealthy businessman looking for adventure, who soon regrets his decision.
- Sandrine (Armelle Deutsch): A young woman with a brash attitude who challenges Dacier at every turn.
Reception and Critique
“Safari” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some appreciated its light-hearted humor and the chemistry between the cast, others found the film’s comedy to be predictable and its plot lacking depth.
Positive Aspects
- Comedy and Humor: The film’s strength lies in its comedic elements, with Kad Merad’s performance as the bumbling tour guide providing many laughs.
- Cast Chemistry: The interactions between the diverse group of tourists create engaging and humorous dynamics.
- Scenic Cinematography: The beautiful landscapes of the African savannah are well-captured, adding visual appeal to the film.
Negative Aspects
- Predictable Plot: The storyline follows a familiar pattern, with few surprises or innovative twists.
- Character Development: Some characters are underdeveloped, making it hard for viewers to connect with their personal journeys.
- Cultural Stereotypes: The film occasionally relies on clichéd portrayals of African culture, which may be seen as insensitive or outdated.
Where to Watch “Safari” in the USA
For those interested in watching “Safari,” there are several streaming services and platforms where the film is available:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch it as part of their subscription or rent/purchase it separately.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: In addition to streaming, you can rent or purchase the film on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchase prices vary from $7.99 to $9.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play. Rental prices usually start at $2.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
- iTunes: “Safari” is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. Rental prices are around $3.99, and purchase prices are approximately $9.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. Rental costs are typically $2.99 to $3.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
Conclusion
“Safari” is a light-hearted comedy that offers a mix of laughs and picturesque African landscapes. While the film’s plot may be predictable and some characters underdeveloped, it succeeds in providing an entertaining experience through its humor and the chemistry of its cast. For viewers in the United States, the film is accessible on various streaming services and rental platforms. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, “Safari” promises a comedic adventure filled with mishaps and unexpected moments in the wild.
