La discrète

I almost wrote as summary: The best Rohmer film that Rohmer never made, but I am not sure this qualifies as a conte moral in the Rohmer tradition. Although the hero talks quite eloquently, and at great length, about his états d'âme, the theme of vengeance is what puts this tale in the Dangerous Liaisons school. The editor, Jean, is responsible for getting the game underway; his friend Antoine, the writer, is the passive agent for seduction of the innocent girl Catherine. That the scheme goes awry--and believably so--is a tribute to the talents of Christian Vincent, who co-wrote the script and directed.

It's a good thing the talk is so witty and enjoyable, otherwise this film would be static and very difficult to watch. Vincent does not move his camera much, preferring the close-up on Luchini as he tells yet another amusing story, or a tight two-shot with Luchini and Henry on a couch or in bed. The performances are wonderful; everybody is at the top of their game, particularly Fabrice Luchini.