It could only be French
- The Well Digger's Daughter review by DJ
Without getting too deep into the meaning of the film and what it tries to tell you about family drama , what you certainly get is a film which carries you to old Provence and its traditions. Its well told story line of love lost , but the beauty of the film is that you become lost in old Provence yourself. A must for lovers of this era and region. Recommended
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
French cinema at its best
- The Well Digger's Daughter review by EW
This is a wonderful evocation of rural Provence in the late 1930's and early stages of the Second World War. Although the war touches the lives of the families involved the film is free from scenes of violence and destruction. On the surface it is highly paternalistic and shows the conventional prejudice against the unmarried mother in a traditional rural society. In the end love shines through, The love of the Well Digger father for his grandson overcomes all and his daughter is able to marry her lover with the approval of all concerned.
The scenery and costumes come together to set the scene perfectly. For those with a working knowledge of French the Provencal accent is most attractive, with the reassurance of subtitles available as a backup.
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
A great portrayal of traditional Provence
- The Well Digger's Daughter review by PS
A well-crafted film with very good performances from the actors, particularly Daniel Auteuil. It was wonderful to experience rural life and traditions.
1 out of 1 members found this review helpful.
A lovely rustic romance.
- The Well Digger's Daughter review by CM
Although the story mostly takes place during the second world war, you hardly notice it. Everything is pretty happy. I love the ancient vintage car one of the characters drives; it is a Peugeot Bebe dating from about 1912.
1 out of 1 members found this review helpful.
Beautiful, absorbing drama
- The Well Digger's Daughter review by Alphaville
A beautiful, absorbing, warm-hearted Marcel Pagnol tale in the tradition of Jean de Florette, starring and directed by Daniel Auteuil, one of the stars of that film. An enchanting story, beautifully played and observed, set in the sparkling Provence countryside at the start of World War 2. The daughter of the title falls for a handsome but arrogant man, Jane Austen style. From there it will draw you in and keep you invested as only French cinema seems able to do. There are a few jumps in plot and characterisation, but the whole gels in a way that makes you feel you’ve just spent a refreshing outdoors holiday in another time and place.
NB Avoid the tell-all trailer and, even worse, the first spoiler review above.
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.