When your love life falls apart, a long journey might be the best answer. French Kiss, a 1995 romantic comedy from director Lawrence Kasdan, takes us on a trip through France with the sizzling chemistry of Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, making us laugh and feel touched at the same time.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Kate (Meg Ryan) is a nervous woman afraid of flying. She must travel to Paris to chase after her boyfriend Charlie (Timothy Hutton), who is about to marry a French woman. On the plane, she sits next to Luc (Kevin Kline), a charming rogue who has hidden a valuable diamond. Along the way, Kate and Luc go on an adventure together in the land of love, through vineyards, luxury hotels, and the City of Light. This journey will change both their lives forever.
Acting and Characters
Meg Ryan plays the fragile but strong-hearted American woman adorably. She conveys fear and determination naturally. Kevin Kline as the roguish French charmer delivers sharp comedic timing and has great chemistry with Ryan. Timothy Hutton as the hesitant boyfriend does well, while Jean Reno as a French policeman adds color to the story.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Lawrence Kasdan directs with warmth and style. He makes great use of French backdrops, from Bordeaux vineyards to Paris at night. The visuals are beautiful and soft. The score by James Newton Howard enhances the romantic mood perfectly, especially the song La Vie en Rose sung by Louis Armstrong.
Editorial Analysis
French Kiss is not just a sweet romance; it also weaves in perspectives on fear of commitment and letting go. The screenplay by Adam Brooks and Lawrence Kasdan has jokes that remain fresh even after nearly thirty years. The film reflects that true love often comes in unexpected forms, and opening up to new things is the key to happiness. A minor flaw is that some plot points are predictable, but overall, it's a warm and enjoyable romantic film.
Verdict
French Kiss is a heartwarming romantic comedy, perfect for those who enjoy travel stories and unexpected love. While not the best in its genre, it's a fun and watchable choice, especially if you're a fan of Meg Ryan.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Great chemistry between Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline
- +Jokes still feel fresh and not dated
- +Beautiful and romantic visuals of France
- +Soundtrack fits the mood perfectly
👎 Cons
- −Some plot points are quite predictable
- −Supporting characters are underutilized
Top Cast
FAQ
The film was first released in 1995.
Currently available on streaming platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, or for rent on YouTube and Apple TV.
Lawrence Kasdan, the famous director of The Big Chill and Silverado.
