Les Infidèles (2012) – A Provocative Exploration of Modern Infidelity
“Les Infidèles” (2012) is a French comedy-drama anthology film directed by several notable directors, including Jean Dujardin, Gilles Lellouche, Emmanuelle Bercot, Fred Cavayé, Alexandre Courtès, Michel Hazanavicius, and Eric Lartigau. The film stars Jean Dujardin and Gilles Lellouche, who also co-wrote the script. It explores various facets of infidelity through a series of vignettes, blending humor, drama, and a touch of satire.
Plot Summary
“Les Infidèles” comprises multiple short films, each focusing on different characters and scenarios involving infidelity. The central theme is the exploration of male infidelity and the often comical, sometimes tragic consequences that follow. The vignettes range from farcical and light-hearted to darkly humorous and introspective.
Some of the standout segments include:
- “La Question”: A man (Jean Dujardin) undergoes therapy to understand why he cheats on his wife.
- “Le Prologue”: Two friends, Fred (Jean Dujardin) and Greg (Gilles Lellouche), engage in a night of debauchery, revealing their flawed attitudes towards relationships.
- “Lolita”: A middle-aged man falls for a much younger woman, leading to complications and comedic misunderstandings.
- “Las Vegas”: A group of friends travels to Las Vegas, where their intentions and morals are put to the test.
Performances and Direction
Jean Dujardin and Gilles Lellouche deliver compelling performances, showcasing their versatility and chemistry. Dujardin, fresh off his Oscar win for The Artist, brings a nuanced blend of charm and vulnerability to his roles. Lellouche complements him with a mix of brashness and sincerity, providing a counterbalance in the film’s various scenarios.
The film’s direction is varied, given the multiple directors involved, yet each segment maintains a cohesive tone that balances humor and introspection. Directors like Michel Hazanavicius, known for The Artist, and Fred Cavayé bring their distinct styles to the project, adding depth and variety to the anthology.
Cinematography and Visual Style
The cinematography by Guillaume Schiffman, who also worked on The Artist, enhances the film’s aesthetic appeal. Each segment has its own visual style, reflecting the different tones and settings. From the sleek, polished look of the Las Vegas scenes to the more intimate, subdued therapy sessions, the cinematography effectively supports the narrative and emotional undercurrents of each vignette.
The use of lighting and color palettes varies between segments, creating distinct atmospheres that match the thematic content. The visual style is both contemporary and dynamic, contributing to the film’s overall engaging presentation.
Themes and Storytelling
“Les Infidèles” delves into themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. The film provides a candid look at male infidelity, exploring the motivations and consequences from different angles. While it often employs humor to address serious subjects, it also offers moments of genuine introspection and emotional depth.
The storytelling is fragmented yet interconnected by the central theme, allowing for a diverse exploration of infidelity. Each segment stands on its own while contributing to the broader commentary on modern relationships and the nature of fidelity.
Streaming and Purchase Options in America
For those interested in watching “Les Infidèles,” several streaming and rental/purchase options are available in America:
- Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a Prime membership or for individual rental/purchase.
- Hulu: Depending on regional availability, the film might be included in Hulu’s catalog.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon: The movie can be rented or purchased in HD format, providing high-quality viewing.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Offers both rental and purchase options, suitable for Android users.
- Apple iTunes: Users can rent or buy the film in HD, ensuring optimal viewing on Apple devices.
Conclusion
“Les Infidèles” (2012) is a provocative and entertaining exploration of infidelity, featuring strong performances by Jean Dujardin and Gilles Lellouche. The anthology format allows for a diverse and multifaceted look at the subject, blending humor, drama, and introspection. With contributions from multiple directors, the film maintains a cohesive yet varied tone, making it an engaging watch for those interested in the complexities of modern relationships. While the subject matter may be controversial, the film’s candid and often humorous approach provides a thought-provoking and entertaining experience.
