Patrice Leconte's unconventional fairytale was nominated for nine Césars, yet landed only the Best Actor prize for Daniel Auteuil. Combining vulnerable optimism and extrasensory nous, he is quite superb as Gabor, the knife-thrower who coaxes the suicidal Adéle (a vibrant Paradis) off a Parisian bridge with the invitation to become his new assistant.
Bound by forces stronger than love, they survive a string of beaux and the odd misdirected blade on their tour of music-halls, circuses and casinos.
Both Fellini and Max Oph?ls would have been at home with this brand of romantic comedy, but Leconte enchants as he entertains and seduces the senses. This may not be the most logical film you'll see this year, but it will certainly be among the most beautiful.