Le bruit des glaçons (2010)

Directed by: Bertrand Blier | 84 minutes | comedy, drama | Actors: Jean Dujardin, Albert Dupontel, Anne Alvaro, Myriam Boyer, Christa Theret, Audrey Dana, Emile Berling, Eric Prat, Farida Rahouadj, Jean Dell, Baptiste Roussillon, Damien Bonnard, Laurent Desponds, Avy Marciano, Clémence Thioly, Geneviève Mnich, Yvon Crenn

Charles (Jean Dujardin) is an alcoholic writer who spends his days drinking and hanging out by the pool, until one day he gets a strange visitor. Charles appears to be suffering from a brain tumor and his cancer is literally – in personified form (played by Albert Dupontel) – imminent. The once successful author first tries to fight against the unwanted guest, but soon realizes that resistance is futile. He will have to spend the rest of his life with this annoying visitor who never leaves his side. His housekeeper Louisa (Anne Alvaro), who is secretly in love with Charles, also has cancer visiting. Together they try to deal with the annoying visit as best they can. The question is, will they surrender to their teasing spirits or will they win the battle?

What is positive about ‘Le bruit des glaçons’ is that it is an original and unpredictable story. Unfortunately, however, the characters remain quite flat due to the absurdist narrative style, which makes it difficult to empathize. The acting is strong, the lead role is played by Jean Dujardin, who previously caused a furore with his lead role in ‘The Artist’ and even won an Oscar (among many other awards) for this. A unique achievement for a French actor. ‘Le bruit des glaçons’ cannot be compared with ‘The Artist’ and is certainly not made to appeal to a large audience. By choosing this role, Dujardin shows that he has a necessary dose of guts.

‘Le bruit des glaçons’ is an absurdist black comedy and really a special case. Cancer isn’t really something to laugh about. You have to be able to go along with the weird story, otherwise you won’t like it at all. For lovers of unconventional bizarre films, ‘Le bruit des glaçons’ will certainly be worth checking out. For movie viewers who prefer a traditionally told story, it will be a long sitting. So not for everyone.