Switches from funny to serious with sublime ability; a brilliant film.

Rating: 8/10 (28 August 2016)

There are plenty of films that fit right into the stereotypical 'touching' film, but here, we see something different: a film that manages to be touching without being corny, and excels with its innate ability to charm the viewer.
I'm not going to pretend that there aren't some minor flaws with Les Intouchables. Perhaps the social divide issue could have been a little better integrated to prevent it becoming too guilt-tripping in nature, maybe the roll of Driss's family could have been improved as the said characters aren't explored enough to be worthwhile, and maybe the pacing could do with some tightening up here and there.
But beside this, what you have is a pretty remarkable film. The way it deals with disability is perhaps its greatest strength - not once are wen asked to feel sorry for Philippe. Rather, the issues of his life and the issues the people around him have to deal with are presented in a very down-to-earth and empathetic way. It ensures the theme of disability doesn't become too heavy without treating with the required respect. And, in many ways, it's the driver for Philippe's character development.
What really defined the film for me most was its superb ability to switch from outright comedy to dealing with far more serious matters. It shouldn't work, yet its handled with such expert care that it becomes one of the best aspects of the film. For instance when Driss first comes to work for Philippe, and how Driss is introduced to how to handle Philippe in one scene, before it switches to the scene with him pouring hot water on his legs. In any other film, it would seem absurd and almost wrong, but not here. The toning is spot on through out, and it ensures that the film's conclusion is satisfying and rewarding.
What's more, the excellent writing ensured that the vast majority of jokes can be understood in English, a rather rare ability for foreign language of films. It's by no means a comedy film, but it's that dash of humour that helps it to stay in control of its tone as mentioned previously.
For me, Les Intouchables is most certainly recommended viewing. For a film that deals with the often tricky issue of disability and includes aspect of social divide, it handles it with excellent care and doesn't drag even once. Its combination of light heartedness and serious reality are just sublime, and it makes it such a joy to watch. Charming, eye opening and well written, you really cannot go wrong with this film.