Customer Reviews

La Grande Seduction / Seducing Doctor Lewis (Original French Version with English Subtitles)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Having heard nothing about this film, I rented it from Netflix because it looked as if it could be fun. I wasn't prepared to see a small masterpiece! The plot involves an attempt to get an MD to come to a broken down fishing village. Fishing is no longer viable and everyone is on welfare. The villagers are hoping that if they have a resident doctor, they will be able to attract a plastics factory. That's it. How, who, what, where and when are the genius of the film. They cannot be described, only enjoyed thoroughly. I can't imagine why it is not more well known here in the US. Those who are leery of a subtitled film will have to give a little here. They will be well rewarded.

I bought this movie on the recommendation of a friend who lives in Quebec. This movie is refreshing and delightful. It can be seen as a family because the story does not involve sex, violence or foul language. Doctor Lewis turns out more kind than how he acted in Montreal. Living in Ste Marie-la-Mauderne changes his life forever and the lives of the villagers. The potential for the romance between him and the postal worker is not forced on us, but we know what will probably happen within the 5 years he is going to be on the island. I laughed a lot of times, but not a rolling on the floor kind of laughing, because this is a sweet story worth watching. It's well written and well-directed: the story is woven neatly. No details is forgotten like how Dr. Lewis ends up having to go to Ste Marie. I have bought a copy for my dad and one for my son who has lived in Quebec.

This movie has many similarities with Waking Ned Divine. Both are set in a small coastal village where the inhabitants are less than prosperous and eager to improve their situation. They all join together to fool an outsider in order to cash in. If you enjoyed the mild humor of Ned Divine then you will like this movie as well. The gentle humor is spread throughout and viewers will appreciate the new ways devised to keep the doctor happily deceived. This movie is not a madcap, zany side-splitter, but if you want an enjoyable, clever film, this is one of the better to come along.