:
Alexandre von Sivers,
Magali Pinglaut,
Benoit Verhaert,
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: New Video Group
: Foreign, Science Fiction , France
: 97 min.
: English
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A high-tech shut-in finds love in an unexpected place in this satirical comedy. Thomas (voice of Benoit Verhaert) is a profoundly agoraphobic 33-year-old man whose condition prevents him from leaving his apartment or allowing others in to visit. Fortunately for him, he rarely needs to do either; Thomas has been declared officially disabled, making him eligible for government services for the handicapped; he's also well-insured and has a claims representative (Alexandre von Sivers) ready to meet his every need. Thomas also has a high-tech "vision-phone" that allows him to communicate with the outside world without having to make actual contact. While Thomas' psychologist (Frederic Topart) tries to sort out his mental state, his insurance representative offers to help with his more personal needs: it seems the government provides prostitutes for the disabled, and Thomas is now eligible. Thomas speaks by phone with Eva (Aylin Yay), a State-funded call girl, and soon finds himself smitten -- so much so that he begins to ponder actually leaving his room. Meanwhile, the psychologist has registered Thomas with a phone-dating service as a more healthy alternative, subjecting Thomas to the not entirely welcome attentions of Melodie (Magali Pinglaut). Thomas Est Amoureux was shot on video entirely in "first person," with the viewer seeing only what Thomas himself would see through his "vision-phone." ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide
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| creative and unique
by rpmfla
March 19, 2004 - 10:53 AM PST
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4 out of 5 members found this review helpful
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| I remembered seeing a clip from this film on the web a while back (the titilating segment with the virtual sextoon), and so when I saw this in the collection, I gave it a try, and I am glad I did. Titilation factor aside (the virtual sex is a very minor, though well done, part of the film), I found this film to be a very interesting exploration of communication and personalities in the near future. The agoraphobic protagonist may be a somewhat exagerated representation of how communication technology both separates us and connects us, but I never felt that this was a heavy-handed attempt at a cautionary tale about the evils of technology. Instead, it is the personalities of the various virtual visitors that make this such a fun, enjoyable film. Though by no means a great film, this is a fine first effort by director Renders. Recommended! |
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GreenCine Member Rating
(Average 7.04)
25 Votes
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