Critic Reviews

The acting is subdued, nothing over the top, but captures a realism not normally seen in the bigger-budget films.

The viewer might strap themselves in for some life lessons. “Driving Madeleine” does serve them up, sure, but the film, written and directed by Christian Carion, is a lot more than a sentimental journey.

Driving Madeleine is held together by the funny and dignified performances of its two leads.

While each flashback gets more and more grating, Line Renaud’s charm makes the present an increasingly welcoming place to return to.

Carion is unabashed in his love for both the cabbie and his fare. That affection makes it easy for us to love them too.

Both of the leads keep it low-key, with 95-year-old Renaud’s unfussy reminiscences dotted with defiant irony, and the initially unforthcoming Boon opening up under her cajoling as naturally as a flower.

It’s a heart-warmer about respecting your elders.