Paris, je t’aime

Paris, je t'aime, an anthology of six-minute films set in different Paris arrondissements, is 'œlike a box of assorted chocolates,' said Stanley Kauffmann in The New Republic. There are some pieces to savor, and others to spit out. Though all of the movie's 18 set pieces take place in the City of Light, they vary wildly in form and mood. Camerawork ranges from time-lapse images to single, lingering shots, and meaning can be abstract or obvious. Art-house favorites such as Alexander Payne, Alfonso Cuarón, and Gus Van Sant all contribute films. Interestingly, more of the directors are American than French. The simplest shorts tend to be the best, said Stephen Holden in The New York Times. French director Sylvain Chomet's tribute to mimes at the Eiffel Tower, for instance, is a busy disaster that only the most devoted Francophile could enjoy. Frederic Auburtin's drama about a divorcing couple (Gena Rowlands and Ben Gazzara), on the other hand, is 'œa gem of multilayered acting.' Though the movie's success rate is fairly high'”about two of every three'”'œthere are no home runs, only doubles, singles, and coy little bunts.' But with so little screen time, it's not wise to go for big drama, said Gene Seymour in Newsday. 'œBecause humor thrives in tight spaces, the most effective pieces are also the funniest.' Steve Buscemi's wordless acting in the Coen brothers' 'œTuileries,' for example, makes it a masterpiece of short-form comedy.

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