[yasr_overall_rating]
In the wake of the mortgage-lending crisis, a former banker returns to his hometown. Faced with his family and childhood friends- and seeing the impact of his actions- our hero learns to show up and give back to those he loves in ways that are priceless.
Money and finances are two important components of our daily lives. They help shape our movements and interactions with others. They also impact personal growth, development, and the culture surrounding us. “Almost Paris” brings that impact to life. Actions are affected by financial decisions and one decision can easily trickle down to affecting many others. This film examines that effect and the multiple ways rebuilding can be achieved after a financial collapse.
“Almost Paris” follows the life of Max (Wally Marzano-Lesnevich), a former banker who is forced to relocate to his hometown after losing his banking job in the big city. Upon arriving, Max lives at his parents’ home with his sister, her husband, and their daughter. Max runs into a cast of former friends and associates that still reside in the town but things get interesting when he is challenged with rebuilding and maintaining past relationships and friendships.
This film is crafty in the way it carefully develops its comedic and romantic atmosphere only to later transform it into a drama. From the beginning, it’s easy to understand Max isn’t built for this town. His interactions with others are awkward and they all seem to be annoyed by his return. We don’t learn the true story of their annoyance with Max until later on in the film. “Almost Paris” is swift with its character introduction and the later learning of their background stories allow scenes to remain fresh.
“Almost Paris” feels like a romantic comedy upon first glance, but the drama is definitely there. The background music accompanies the scenes to enhance their creative vision and the acting feels like you are a part of the storylines whereupon the characters force you to ask questions about them. It’s easy to be captivated by this tale as it is a story of perseverance, love, and redemption. Tough times can either break a relationship or strengthen a bond.
I thought this movie was bien, French for good. You’ll get that joke after watching the film for yourself. Seriously, this is a good family film. It’s filled with pleasant jokes and satirical moments. It’s a common story, but a story that should always be told. What does a person do upon falling on hard times? Do you pick yourself up and rebuild or do you simply weep under the pressure of maintaining? The choice is always yours to make, but it’s an easy one with the help of friends and family.
In theaters January 9th
