This cult classic is a post-apocalyptic surrealist black comedy about the landlord of an apartment building who occasionally prepares a unique delicacy for his oddball tenants.
Clapet (Jean-Claude Dreyfus) is a butcher who owns a run-down apartment building in post-apocalyptic France. The building is in constant need of a handyman, as this position has a history, with previous incumbents having ended up on the neighbours’ dinner tables via the butcher's block. The latest in the long line of disposable workers is Louison (Dominique Pinon), a former circus clown desperate for work and lodging. But this time Clapet's plan hits a snag when his young daughter (Marie-Laure Dougnac) falls head over heels for the lovable Louison. But as bellies begin to rumble, will love be enough to keep Louison out of la charcuterie? Directors Jeunet and Caro combe the dark humour of the Grimm's fairy tales, with the spirit of Terry Gilliam and that peculiarly French knack of putting magic into film. A treat at any time, but especially on a big screen. This is a true masterpiece of the fantastique. (Subtitles)
France 1991 Jean-Pierre Jeunet & Marc Caro 99m
