Amélie

One of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. Simply beautiful, at times unbelievably kitschy and in its tone also perverse, but presented in a unique way. This is a unique example of how the imagination can swirl and dazzle and yet remain in a cohesive whole that never ceases to entertain. And Audrey was never more enchanting. (10/20/2014)

This film quite successfully teeters on the edge of great kitsch and utter perfection. On the one hand, you have to admire Jeunet's original and heartfelt narration; on the other, at times it makes you wonder why the whole thing is so strangely (in short, weirdly) filmed and nothing proper happens. The casting of Audrey Tautou was a hit, without her Amélie wouldn't be half as atypical and likeable a character, and the film wouldn't be one that can move, make you laugh and feel amazed; and it only needs a few thoughtful shots to do so. (05/25/2012)

Miss Amelie and her fairytale, loving, a little sad and humanly warm world enchanted me at first glance. What makes this film special? Definitely the story and the general tuning. It's harmony dyed into a clear and intoxicating cinematic fluid that can warm the soul better than a gulp of rum. The acting performances, especially the title role by Audrey Tautou, who managed to play an extremely difficult role with complete persuasion. The cute supporting characters who are overflowing with life without necessarily having to get too much time on screen. Jeunet made a film with naïve childhood love, a naively uncritical view of reality. And it's not fake, it's not even overly sweet - it's miraculously soothing. Amelie is a small island of peace and love in an overall bleak world and cinema. Amelie is the gentle girl caress I need from time to time. (03/17/2004)

The rumors and thousands of rave reviews didn't lie: Amelie is amazing. This endearingly poetic film has a kind of irresistible charm, thanks to which it combines several genres, looks both kitschy and original at the same time, the actors playing bizarre characters suddenly become ordinary people living ordinary lives in an ordinary Parisian neighborhood... In short, it is an extraordinarily ordinary film, bursting with color and optimism, and with great music. (10/21/2011)

I took advantage the re-release to celebrate the film’s 20 anniversary and went (for the umpteenth time) to the magical world of Amélie of Montmartre. Jean-Pierre Jeunet's film has lost none of its distinctive charm and atmosphere – Amélie has aged like a fine French wine. Apart from the sometimes melancholic but all the more endearing story with an incredibly positive charge, I liked the narrative and visual style that more than once reminded me of Wes Anderson's work. The icing on the cake is the wonderful soundtrack, which has basically taken on a human form over the years. Amélie, the a timeless story about a young woman who tries to make the world around her a better place, while easily forgetting herself, always gets me, entertains and moves me with every viewing. (04/18/2022)