This clever, thoroughly entertaining French comedy is the latest from co-writer and director Carine Tardieu (The Dandelions). The breakout hit of the 2017 Cannes International Film Festival, Just to be Sure premiered in the Directors’ Fortnight and received multiple standing ovations. The charming rom-com is a tale of parenthood, love and family – both lost and found.
Tardieu (and fellow writers Michel Leclerc and Raphaelle Moussafir) added a mythical ingredient to the drama that made sense in the context of the film. The subject matter could have been handled very differently. In fact, it could lend itself to high drama. Instead, a beautiful light touch permeates the film. Its pacing is spot on, ensuring the story moves along.
It’s hard not to be won over by the warmth, which it exudes. You quickly care about the characters and their fate.
Damiens (The Bélier Family) is perfectly cast as a bear of a man with a soft heart. He dominates proceedings. Once de France appears – which is well into the picture – she matches Damiens for heft.
Tender and effective, Just To Be Sure is an adult crowd-pleaser.
Director: Carine Tardieu
Cast: François Damiens, Guy Marchand, Cécile De France
Release Date: 26 December 2017
Rating: M
Alex First
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David Edwards is the editor of The Blurb and a contributor on film and television