The success of Amelie meant it would inevitably have its imitators and, of course, that they would fall short of the mark. Debutant director Yann Samuell's film owes such a heavy debt that the opening minutes shamelessly recreate the visual style and quirkily offbeat perspective of Jean-Pierre Jeunet's hit, yet without the latter's assurance and charm.
This tale of Julien (Guillaume Canet) and Sophie (Marion Cotillard), best friends whose childhood games of dare and double-dare dangerously continue into adulthood, plays with interesting ideas.
However, the attempt to tackle serious subjects in a flippant manner compromises its potential.