Watch Parisienne

Parisienne, also known as Peur de rien, is a film directed by Danielle Arbid that captures the story of a Lebanese woman named Lina who moves to Paris in the 1990s to escape the violence of her home country. The film stars talented actors like Vincent Lacoste, Paul Hamy, Damien Chapelle, Clara Ponsot, Bastien Bouillon, and Dominique Blanc.

The movie opens with Lina leaving her family behind in Beirut and arriving in Paris with a small amount of money and a desire to start a new life. She finds herself staying with her aunt, who is estranged from her father, in a crowded apartment in the heart of the city. Despite the overbearing living situation, Lina is determined to start fresh and enrols in a French language school in hopes of pursuing a degree in literature.

As the film progresses, Lina's character navigates the complicated socio-political landscape of Paris in the 1990s, experiencing both triumph and tragedy along the way. She becomes involved in a romantic relationship with a Jewish musician named Jean-Marc, whose parents disapprove of their relationship due to her Arab heritage. Still, Lina is determined to break free from her past and pursue love and happiness on her own terms.

The movie's charm lies in its ability to juxtapose Lina's earnest eagerness with the harsh realities of the world around her. While she immigrates to Paris to escape the violence in her homeland, she is confronted with a new kind of hostility that she had not anticipated. The themes of racism and xenophobia are explored through the eyes of Lina, who sees both the good and the bad in her new home.

The film also explores the complexities of romance in the face of cultural differences. Lina's relationship with Jean-Marc is a delicate dance between love and resistance from his community. As she struggles to connect with his parents and accept his lifestyle, the film illuminates the challenges that a multicultural relationship can face.

The actors in Parisienne bring depth and nuance to their characters. Vincent Lacoste, who plays Jean-Marc, delivers an earnest performance that underscores his character's kindness and affection for Lina. Similarly, Clara Ponsot's portrayal of the headstrong and determined Lina is both heartfelt and emotional.

Parisienne offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on life in Paris in the 1990s, exploring themes of love, identity, and community. The film takes an unflinching approach to its portrayal of the city, showcasing both its beauty and its ugliness. It is a movie that will leave you thinking long after it's over, making it a worthy addition to any cinephile's collection.

Overall, Parisienne is a stunning drama that takes the audience on a journey of self-discovery and love in the midst of cultural and political turbulence. It is a must-see for anyone who enjoys foreign films or is looking for a movie that offers a unique perspective on life, love and relationships.

Parisienne is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes.