Forget the psychoanalysis and the bagels. Woody Allen takes a dramatic detour with "Coup de Chance," a captivating French thriller that ranks among his best work in years. This isn't your typical Allen flick. There's no neurotic banter in cafes or longing glances at the Brooklyn Bridge. Instead, we're whisked away to the opulent world of Parisian high society, where a seemingly perfect marriage crumbles under the weight of a chance encounter and a dark secret.
The film hinges on Jean Fournier (Melvil Poupaud), a wealthy Parisian with a steely demeanor and a trophy wife, Fanny (Lou de Laâge). Their lavish apartment speaks volumes about Jean's success, but whispers follow him regarding a mysterious past business partner. Fanny, a captivating art expert, appears to have it all. Yet, beneath the designer clothes, a restlessness simmers. Enter Alain (Niels Schneider), an old friend from her bohemian past. Their chance meeting rekindles a spark, forcing Fanny to confront the gilded cage she's built for herself.
Allen, known for dissecting relationships, avoids clichés. Fanny's dissatisfaction isn't solely rooted in material wealth. She craves intellectual connection and passion, qualities absent in the cold, calculating Jean. Their contrasting lives are masterfully captured. Scenes of Fanny and Alain discussing art in cramped apartments stand in stark contrast to opulent dinner parties hosted by Jean and his shallow social circle.
The film's crisp dialogue and swift pacing evoke classic French noir. Gone are Allen's trademark rambling monologues. Here, the tension builds with each stolen glance and cryptic conversation. The camerawork, under the legendary Vittorio Storaro's masterful eye, bathes the film in a timeless elegance. Sun-drenched Parisian streets and richly colored interiors transport us to a world of privilege and hidden desires.
While the script occasionally falls prey to exposition, "Coup de Chance" ultimately delivers a powerful punch. A major plot twist throws the narrative into disarray, blurring the lines between innocence and guilt. Allen lets the audience draw its own conclusions, refusing to offer moral platitudes. Is passion a justification for transgression? The answer lies in the characters' desperate choices and their chilling consequences.
At 88, Allen demonstrates that he's far from past his prime. "Coup de Chance" is a testament to his ability to adapt and experiment. This Parisian adventure proves that Allen can still surprise and enthrall audiences. It's a film that will leave you guessing until the very end, with a lingering sense of unease and a touch of dark humor. Whether you're a die-hard Allen fan or simply a fan of suspenseful narratives, "Coup de Chance" is a must-watch.
