Its combination of psychological insight and emotional restraint helps it transcend sentimentality.
The Butterfly (2003)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:20
Fresh:16
Rotten:4
Average Rating:6.6/10
Synopsis: Writer-director Philippe Muyl delivers this tender French family drama about an unlikely bond that forms between a young girl and her elderly neighbor. Michel Serrault (LE CAGE AUX FOLLES) is... Writer-director Philippe Muyl delivers this tender French family drama about an unlikely bond that forms between a young girl and her elderly neighbor. Michel Serrault (LE CAGE AUX FOLLES) is Julien, an aging butterfly collector who leads a quiet life. But when Elsa (Claire Bouanich) moves into the apartment above him, Julien's life takes on a new trajectory. Neglected by her mother, the inquisitive eight-year-old attaches herself to Julien and convinces him to take her on a trip to the mountains to try to locate Isabelle, a beautiful but elusive butterfly. At first skeptical, Julien relents--thinking that Elsa's mother has left her alone in the apartment--and the pair embark on their journey. As the journey unfolds, Julien shows Elsa the attention that she's been craving, and Elsa gives Julien a new lease on life, helping him to see the world through more innocent eyes. Back at home, Elsa's mother Isabelle (Nade Dieu) is shocked to discover that her daughter has disappeared. A near-tragedy brings the situation to a head, teaching each of the characters a very valuable lesson about life and love. Directed with extreme sensitivity by Muyl, THE BUTTERFLY features standout performances from the always reliable Serrault and newcomer Bouanich. [More]
Starring: Michel Serrault, Claire Bouanich, Nade Dieu
Starring: Michel Serrault, Claire Bouanich, Nade Dieu
Director: Phillippe Muyl
Director: Phillippe Muyl
Screenwriter: Phillippe Muyl
Producer: Patrick Godeau
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Reviews for The Butterfly
It's all very sweet and occasionally touching. More lasting shots of more beautiful butterflies would have added a lot, though.
A fine French film about a cross-generational friendship between a cranky entomologist and a lonely little girl yearning for some attention.
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 78% 78% | The Hangover |
| 88% 88% | Inglourious Basterds |
| 66% 66% | Public Enemies |
| 24% 24% | G-Force |
| 44% 44% | Night at the Museum: B… |
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 90% 90% | District 9 |
| 86% 86% | 500 Days of Summer |
| 63% 63% | Extract |
| 06% 06% | All About Steve |
| 78% 78% | It Might Get Loud |
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