Change of Plans at the Sundance Kabuki
September 7, 2010 I'm always grateful for the vibrant film scene in San Francisco. One of my favorite theaters, Sundance Kabuki, has a regular SFFS Screen program (with the SF Film Society) that showcases independent films that aren't released to the mass theater chains.
A scene from "Change of Plans," opening on SFFS Screen September 10. Courtesy of San Francisco Film Society.
This weekend they're premiering "Change of Plans (Le code a changé)," an entertaining and deftly crafted French choral comedy by acclaimed director Danièle Thompson. Thompson has turned out a few witty gems (Avenue Montaigne, Jet Lag, La Bûche) and I was happy to see her latest release. The stellar cast includes Emmanuelle Seigner (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly), Karin Viard, Dany Boon (Micmacs), Marina Hands, Marina Foïs and Patrick Bruel (A Secret). Her son Christopher Thompson also co-wrote the script and stars in the film.
Danièle Thompson's "Change of Plans." Courtesy of SF Film Society.
This is slightly darker than her previous films but Thompson manages to maintain a pretty light tone throughout the story as the characters deal with family, extramarital affairs, divorce, illness and the usual banalities of everyday life. It's an interesting and fun glimpse into the privileged lives of several Parisian friends. As a nod to Roman Polanski (Seigner is his wife), they even share his Bigos recipe within the credits. It was referenced in the film and you too can make this Polish stew.
These films only play for a week, so make your plans accordingly and get your tickets soon at sffs.org and sundancecinemas.com.
Reader Comments (2)
Ooooh I'd love to see it!
Danielle thompson is kind of a phenomenon, especially since she made the scenario for "La Boum" in the eighties, which was a huge chick flick success. Since then she managed to picture the Parisian life color perfect, and her filmographie is impressive.
I'm a big fan of Marina Fois, she's quirky and funny and chic at the same time, a very difficult combo to master. The casting is an interesting panel of stars. Did you know that Bruel was the French equivalent to Justin Timberlake in the early nineties? To the point it was almost hysterical. He is a good actor though, and I wonder what kind of character he's playing.
Daniele Thompson is one of my favorite directors in France. I also love Marina Fois' quirkiness. I can't believe Bruel was such a heartthrob! I need to listen to his music. I really liked his role in "A Secret."