Romantics Anonymous

What a wonderful, sweet and charming film. Fairly original with the two leads suffering from the same affliction and having trouble connecting. Some may think this is a "chick flick", but I would have to strongly disagree. Being a guy, I really liked this film. Great characterizations and an enjoyable story.

Most romantic comedies seem formulaic in nature because they are, there is a set of rules that has unfortunately boxed in most directors into making some extremely soulless, clichÃd tripe. It's about time for a new formula and Romantics Anonymous delivers just that. It's the story of Jean-Rene and Angelique, two incredibly introverted individuals who both suffer through life due to their extreme shyness. However they both have a passion for chocolate as Jean-Rene owns a chocolate factory and Angelique is a chocolatier. The way that Romantics Anonymous is different is that it doesn't build to the inevitable moment where one person does something wrong leading to an epic apology that brings about their inevitable state of togetherness. Romantics builds the relationship through many, many missteps and mistakes on both sides. It's a well crafted film, that is both tragic and hilarious (often at the same times). It made me cackle on more than one occasion with their individual ticks and quirks being so well timed and delivered that it's impossible not to laugh. Watching these two damaged individuals struggle and work through their issues while at the same time being pushed forward by their joint passion is beautifully displayed with both leads (Benoit Poelvoorde and Isabelle Carre) giving honest yet revealing performances. It's so unique and funny that it just might be the best comedy of the year in my opinion, unless you count Abduction which is just hilarious.