Midnight in Paris – United States/France/Spain – 2011 – Comedy, History, Romance
Directed by: Woody Allen
Written by: Woody Allen
Main Players: Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams; Marion Cotillard; Kathy Bates; Michael Sheen; Allison Pill; Corey Stoll; Tom Hiddleston; Adrien Brody; Mimi Kennedy; Kurt Fuller
Feeling like a true-life fantasy, Midnight’s story is one of wonder. Author and to-be-husband Gil Pender (Wilson) is on a trip to Paris with his materialistic fiancée Inez (McAdams) and her parents. Gil appears to struggle with some of their viewpoints on life and possessions, but immediately feels a connection to the surrounding city. As he falls in love with Paris, he winds up taking late-night strolls through the streets to avoid additional time with his new in-laws. In this solo time, he ponders his book, which is ‘nostalgia’ themed, and enjoys peaceful evenings and amazing architecture.
On his walk one night, he “magically” winds up back in time during his perceived golden age of human existence: the 1920’s. Suddenly encompassed in a world rife with his literary and artistic heroes, Gil feels he has found his home. As he explores his new world around him, he questions life, the universe, and everything. He feels happy, and home.
Bumping into one famous historical figure after another, there are lessons to be learned, even about the future and his current existence in the 2010s. However, there is also endless possibility in his trips to the past, as well as a gorgeous and extremely intriguing woman, Adriana (Cotillard), who is a literal Picasso lover and free spirit.
Partly reliant on its all-star cast to bring it to life, the story is one of wonder and exploration. There are too many amazing characterizations to mention them all, and every single part feels real despite the dream-like story. The actors all nail their roles, even the bit parts. The comedy is both awkward and relatable, while maintaining a sharp observational wit.
Most Woody Allen pictures do not resonate with me; however, this one fully did on all levels. From its hilarious and tone-setting opening dialogue all the way to end credits, there is so much fun to be had. The story combines this humor with strong emotional themes and complex human introspection. The film surprised me in most every way, and brings great comedy to a beautiful setting. I was so glad I gave it a shot, and you should too.
My comparison movies below do not include Woody Allen flicks because honestly, I have not watched many of them.
See This If You Liked:
Before Sunrise; Amelie; Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind; Moonstruck; Lost in Translation; 500 Days of Summer; Stranger than Fiction; Garden State
Score:
9.0