The Restaurant (1966) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Restaurant (1966), originally titled Le Grand Restaurant, is a French comedy that showcases the iconic Louis de Funès at his finest. This classic film, directed by Jacques Besnard, delivers witty humor, satirical takes on the restaurant business, and a delightful blend of slapstick comedy. With de Funès playing the role of the high-strung and ambitious restaurant owner, the movie remains a timeless gem in French cinema. In this review, we will dive into the film’s plot, characters, and humor, while also exploring where to watch The Restaurant online, especially for viewers in America.
Overview of The Restaurant (1966)
The Restaurant revolves around Monsieur Septime, played by Louis de Funès, who owns a prestigious and highly regarded restaurant in Paris. Known for his strictness and obsession with perfection, Septime runs his restaurant like a military operation. Everything must be perfect – from the service to the food – and his staff is constantly under pressure to meet his exacting standards.
However, things take a chaotic turn when a high-profile guest, an important South American president, is kidnapped from his restaurant. Septime becomes inadvertently involved in a complex political conspiracy, and his once pristine establishment is plunged into a farcical whirlwind of misunderstandings, secret agents, and police investigations.
The movie is filled with hilarious moments, with de Funès’s comedic timing and physical humor being the main driving force. His portrayal of Septime as a neurotic perfectionist trying to keep up appearances amidst the chaos makes for a highly entertaining watch.
Plot and Humor
The plot of The Restaurant is a brilliant blend of farce and satire, with the restaurant setting serving as the perfect backdrop for the film’s comedic escapades. Septime’s obsession with order and perfection contrasts sharply with the unpredictable events that unfold around him. The kidnapping of the president leads to a series of misunderstandings, chases, and awkward situations that escalate to absurd levels of comedy.
The humor in the film is primarily driven by Louis de Funès’s energetic performance. His facial expressions, physical comedy, and frantic attempts to maintain control of the situation provide countless laugh-out-loud moments. The film also pokes fun at the pretentiousness of fine dining and the restaurant industry, with exaggerated depictions of service, kitchen staff, and the over-the-top antics of the culinary world.
Despite being over five decades old, The Restaurant remains a beloved classic due to its timeless humor and universal themes. The film’s comedic set-pieces, such as the intricate choreography of waiters and the slapstick chases, are as funny today as they were upon its release.
Characters and Performances
Louis de Funès shines as Monsieur Septime, the neurotic restaurant owner whose entire world revolves around his establishment. His performance is the highlight of the film, with his rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy elevating the character to legendary status. Whether he’s scolding his staff for the slightest mistake or frantically trying to salvage his reputation after the kidnapping, de Funès brings an intensity to the role that keeps the audience engaged.
The supporting cast, including Bernard Blier as a police inspector and Maria-Rosa Rodriguez as the kidnapped president’s daughter, adds to the comedic dynamic of the film. The ensemble cast plays off de Funès’s high-energy antics, with each character contributing to the farcical situations that arise throughout the movie.
Cinematic Style and Direction
Director Jacques Besnard masterfully balances slapstick humor with witty dialogue and situational comedy. The restaurant setting provides a unique backdrop for the film’s visual gags and fast-paced action. Besnard’s direction keeps the energy high, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment, with one comedic situation seamlessly flowing into the next.
The film’s visual style, with its vibrant colors and elaborate restaurant interiors, adds to the overall charm. The meticulous attention to detail in the restaurant scenes, from the synchronized movements of the waiters to the bustling kitchen, creates a sense of controlled chaos that is both visually and comically engaging.
Where to Watch The Restaurant Online
For viewers in the U.S. interested in watching The Restaurant, there are a few options to consider. While not as widely available as more recent films, this classic French comedy can be found on certain platforms offering international cinema.
1. Amazon Prime Video
The Restaurant (1966) is available on Amazon Prime Video for rent or purchase. As a popular platform for international films, Amazon Prime offers viewers the chance to experience classic foreign-language comedies like this one. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99, and purchasing the film can cost around $9.99 to $14.99.
2. Apple TV
You can also find The Restaurant on Apple TV, where the movie is available for both rental and purchase. Apple TV frequently hosts a collection of classic European cinema, and The Restaurant is part of this curated library. Prices for rental usually hover around $3.99, while buying the movie can cost around $9.99 to $12.99, depending on the video quality.
3. Criterion Channel
For those interested in more curated and classic cinema, Criterion Channel occasionally features films like The Restaurant as part of their international film offerings. While not always available year-round, it’s worth checking this service, especially for fans of French cinema and Louis de Funès.
4. Google Play Movies & TV
Another option is Google Play Movies & TV, where The Restaurant is listed for both renting and purchasing. Prices are similar to other platforms, with rentals typically priced around $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the format and resolution.
5. YouTube Movies
For a more accessible option, YouTube Movies offers The Restaurant for streaming. You can rent or purchase the movie directly through YouTube’s platform, with rental prices usually set at $3.99 and purchasing the movie costing about $9.99.
Conclusion
The Restaurant (1966) is a delightful French comedy that has stood the test of time. With Louis de Funès’s unforgettable performance as Monsieur Septime, the film offers a perfect blend of slapstick humor and situational comedy. Whether you’re a fan of classic French cinema or simply looking for a light-hearted movie to enjoy, The Restaurant delivers in every aspect.
For U.S. viewers, the film can be streamed or rented on popular platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, and YouTube Movies. With its unique charm and comedic brilliance, The Restaurant is a must-watch for fans of classic cinema.
