Noted French actor and filmmaker, Dany Boon, known for his portrayals of relatable characters, graces our screen in the spellbinding 'Driving Madeleine'. Boon portrays Charles, a financially strapped taxi driver vulnerable to losing his livelihood, who vaguely rifles through life with a light beard and a persistently furrowed brow. He takes dignity in his job and doesn't bear lightly interference from his riders, like a French exec who tries to instruct him on his route – to whom he retorts, “You do your job, I’ll do mine.”
Charles’ routine veers off course when he gets a call for a lucrative fare with a twist. The client is none other than the eponymous Madeleine, a legendary, worldly Parisian chanteuse in her 90s, who was even a part of the American sitcom “Silver Spoons.” She is bidding farewell to her home, moving to an assisted care facility. Wanting to make her last journey as a free woman memorable, she hires Charles for a circuitous route to her new residence.
The remarkable plot of 'Driving Madeleine', compiled and directed by Christian Carion, goes much beyond sentimental reminiscence. Carion's cinematic touch, acclaimed for his historically based film 'Joyeux Noel', infuses a unique charm in 'Driving Madeleine'. As Charles navigates through Madeleine's memory lane, he is compelled to broaden his perspective, forced to confront his life’s struggles and anger.
As they explore the city rooftops and narrow lanes, Madeleine’s flashbacks unspool touching episodes from the intense period of World War II, her secret affair with an American soldier, and her illegitimate child. Madeleine is painted as a resilient spirit, who battles an abusive husband whilst dealing with societal norms and biases. Yet her tale, told through sporadic memories, resonates with strength and grit.
Linking history and contemporary issues, Madeleine and Charles traverse through iconic Parisian landmarks and momentous events such as May ’68 and Vietnam. Against the backdrop of a modern world, Madeleine takes smart chances to protect Charles from imminent professional consequences, solidifying their unexpected but deepening bond.
In a poignant turn of events, the beleaguered Charles forgoes his hefty fare after Madeleine’s final ride, setting the stage for a gratifying conclusion that’s deserving of their profound friendship.
