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The story begins with the history of Amélie (Audrey Tautou) - from
her conception, through the events that shape her childhood, to the young
woman that she is today - a waitress in a tiny Paris café full of
colorful regulars. Her life changes forever when she discovers a box hidden
behind her bathroom wall, it contains a young boy's treasures. She decides
to return this box to its rightful owner and when she finally tracks down
the gentleman (Maurice Bénichou) and sees how it changes him, she
decides it's her destiny to fix other people's lives.
Whatever she decides people need, that's what she helps create in their
lives: playing matchmaker for her coworker, Georgette (Isabelle Nanty);
building the confidence of the grocer's assistant, Lucien (Jamel Debbouze);
giving the grocer a little humility (Urbain Cancellier); or providing her
father (Rufus) with a reason to travel. But when she sees Nino (Mathieu
Kassovitz), a man who collects discarded photos, and realizes she's attracted
to him, will Amélie have the courage to change her own life?
The opening sequence is a wonderful montage that immediately lets you know
that you're in for a visual treat that's also incredibly funny. The movie
takes off on a non-stop roller coaster ride all over Paris as Amélie
works her magic on everyone she knows. It's one of those movies that you
can see more than once and notice something new every time - tucked in
the frames are wonderful little surprises like eating strawberries from
your fingertips and spying clouds that look like bunnies.
Audrey Tautou is perfect as the shy girl who is bubbling over with enthusiasm
on the inside. Her huge, expressive eyes sparkle and you can't help but
fall in love with her. Madame Robinson would appreciate Mathieu Kassovitz.
This modern-day fairy tale is warm and charming (not saccharine sweet)
- you'll leave the theater with a smile.
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