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| Movie Review: The Grocer's Son Alternate Title: Van Go
Story: Antoine, the sullen,
semi-estranged grocer's son is called home from the City to take care
of the family grocery store and food van delivery service when his father
suffers a heart attack. How Antoine finally grows up and learns how
to smile is at the heart of this slow moving, quiet summer film. Affectionately directed by Eric Guirado
and written by Guirado and Florence Vignon we meet
an odd assortment of people who live in the present day but seem to
be a throwback to a slower, simpler time. The slow pace of the film helps to set up his
realistic change of heart and attitude. As the film draws to a close
the story lines are complete and there is a warmth in your heart. Watch the trailer here. It is pretty funny. You
will see a French film with Japanese(?) subtitles. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1OuTGCTSm8
Acting: Nicolas Casale (think a
young, puffier Alain Delon) was terrific as the rough around the edges
grocer's son. Clothilde Hesme was lovely as the love
interest. The rest of the supporting cast, including many of the local
elderly Provencal folks were great.
Predilection: None
Critters: Hens, kittens and a dog.
Food: What else? It is a French film about a grocer,
so for sure so there is food. Eggs, tomatoes, tins
of peas, flambe'd dishes, peaches, apples, etc. etc. etc.
Sex Spectrum: A roll in the hay. Fuzzy in the details.
Blatant Product Placement: Perrier
Soundtrack: Sweet and bucolic.
Visual Art: The hills of Provence looked like many
an Impressionist painting. Yummy for the eyes.
Theater Audience: About 30 other people on a Sunday
afternoon at Cinema Village.
Weather: Provence in the summer is perfect.
Sappy Factor: 0
Quirky Meter: 0
Squirm Scale: 0
Drift Factor: I looked at my watch a few times during
the middle.
Predictability Level: High
Tissue Usage: 0
Oscar Worthy: No
Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be fine.
Length: Under two hours.
LOBO HOWLS: 7
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