I first saw Les Visiteurs in France about seven years ago. It was all the rage at the time and everyone insisted that I see it. It was supposed to be a great parody about the "bourgeoisie" in France- and I thought "great, something I won't really understand". However, once again, my assumptions were incorrect.

The movie concerns Godefroy le Hardi, a count from the dark ages (think year 1000) and his vassal, Jacquouille, who are unexpectedly and mistakenly transported to the twentieth century (1992), whereupon Godefroy comes into contact with his descendents, of whom he is so proud. We watch the two dark ages men attempt to adjust to the 90's, while trying to figure out a way "home".

Sound confusing? It kind of is. But as we watch Godefroy and Jacquouille see sights they have never seen such as roads, chariots with no mules (cars), and pollution, the movie takes on a much deeper meaning. The whole while, the "descendents" think that Godefroy and Jacquouille's stink (rotten teeth, smelly feet) is worse than polluted air and car exhaust- makes you start to question what is more important…

I watched this movie a few years ago with my boyfriend who doesn't speak a lick of French and who normally hates movies with subtitles. He loved it. The actors are wonderful. Jean Reno (you may recognize him from "the Professional" with Natalie Portman), Christian Clavier and Valerie Lemercier are all incredible. Their physical movements are so full of expression, and sometimes blatant overacting make this film enjoyable for people of all languages.

The social commentary is what I really liked after I had watched it several times. A lot of the humor is very "French"- making fun of Godefroy's excitement at having a noble lineage and utter disgust at the nouveau riche, the bourgeoisie who are, as the film puts it, "holier than thou", and the rankings of different classes, even in today's society.

Of course the physical comedy is also superb. It's borderline slapstick with a dose of intelligence. You may be thinking this is popular in France and so is Jerry Lewis, I don't know about you, BeastieGirl, but I assure you, Les Visiteurs is great fun for everyone.

My advice is to get the version with subtitles, as the voices alone carry much humor and emotion. Watch it several times, you'll find something new to love each time. I own it and can't get enough of it.






Recommended: Yes