Orchestra Seats

Director

Daniele Thompson

Tagline

If you sit too close to the front, you can't see the whole stage

Synopsis

This enchanting, contemporary comedy about characters caught between their private dreams and public images, a favourite amongst audiences and critics, was chosen above all other films as France’s official entry for the 2007 Academy Awards.

Three momentous events are about to occur: a popular actress, Catherine (Valérie Lemercier), will star in a new play but wonders if her work has any value or meaning; A musical prodigy with a worldwide following, Jean-François (Albert Dupontel) is to deliver a major recital, but wants out of the limelight despite protests from his wife (Laura Morante); and aging financier Jacques (Claude Brasseur) will auction off his renowned art collection to the dismay of his son (co-scripter Christopher Thompson). Our entree into these worlds is the bubbly Jessica (Cécile de France) who works as a young waitress at the Bar des Theatres on the chic Avenue Montaigne where the three often cross paths, along with Claudie (Dani), the theatre’s retiring concierge.

Writer-director Danièle Thompson (Jet Lag) directs the top-notch cast with such smooth assurance that this consistently entertaining comedy glows with infectious cheerfulness. Snappy dialogue, vivid characters and strong performances abound, with a little romance thrown in for good measure.