The classic Amelie turns 25 this year and is a much loved is a dazzling, heart-warming and quirky classic that enchants from the very first frame! This spirited French romantic comedy blends whimsy, charm and pure cinematic joy in a way few films ever have, capturing hearts globally and becoming one of the most beloved films of the 21st century. It is pure cinema doing much of its storytelling with gorgeously rich visuals and a wonderfully playful charm.
Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Amelie tells the delightful story of a shy young waitress in Montmartre, Paris, who discovers a hidden box of childhood treasures and decides to dedicate her life to quietly improving the lives of those around her. Using imagination, mischief and a quirky sense of serendipity, she orchestrates whimsical acts of kindness, from helping a blind man savour raspberries to reuniting lovers, all the while stumbling toward her own search for love with the eccentric photo-booth enthusiast Nino.
Audrey Tautou mesmerises and enchants as Amelie in every single scene, having risen to international fame and later starring in The Da Vinci Code. Mathieu Kassovitz (of The Fifth Element) brings unique, playful energy as Nino, and Rufus adds unforgettable charm as one of Amelie's neighbours.
Visually rich, affectionately scored and brilliantly stylised, Amelie celebrates human connection, kindness and the magic in life's smallest moments. Its lush cinematography, inventive storytelling and Parisian wonder helped it win Best Film at the European Film Awards, four Cesar Awards including Best Film and Best Director, plus two BAFTAs, and it earned five Academy Award nominations including Best Foreign Language Film.
The film will be preceded by a short introduction by a member of the Halstead Empire team on why the film is regarded as a classic, some great trivia and interesting things to look out for during the screening. If you have never seen it then this is your chance! If you are unsure about foreign language films then this is a fantastic entry point as the film relies so heavily on visual storytelling and those visuals are so gorgeous that you will spend much more time watching than reading. I promise you that the film will enchant you from the first frame to the last!
You might like Am?lie if you enjoyed Midnight in Paris (2011) and The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014).
