Fanfan. That's the name of our leading lady (French Actress Marceau) and Alexandre (Vincent Perez) her love interest. I think that the chemistry displayed by these two great performers is rarely surpassed, and seldom achieved. From the moment the movie begins and the characters meet, the viewer knows they are bound to fall deeply and madly in love with one another. The problem, and it is a biggie, is that Alexandre is engaged and only three months away from his wedding to his 5 year girlfriend. He decides to court her without ever getting too close to her, or involved in any kind of physical relationship. The decission and the way he carries out his plan is outstanding, funny, imaginative and everygirl's dreams about finding her prince charming. But then, the table turns and Fanfan, aware of his engagement and somewhat humilliated by his refusal to bed her although she can 'smell' his interest and desire, acts nonchantly and finds herself a so-called fiance. Alexanders ideals are not merely drawn from a hat, or random ravings, but at the end one finds his reasons for never wanting to let go of those precious moments when one is falling in love with another person. Furthermore, his intented way of living together but without the messy complications and danger or becoming a rutinary and trivial couple is brilliant and funny, just perfect. I won't give up the ending. One should see it for oneself. If it is not a classic by now, it surely will become one in time. The writing is superb, and the acting equal to it's greatness.
Fanfan
(1993)
A must for anyone who enjoys a good laugh, romance and film!
7 February 2000
Warning: Spoilers