Un idiot à Paris (1967)
Directed by Serge Korber

Film Review

This rather bloodless comedy is marred by a weak script (which has few jokes and a rather silly storyline based around tiresome stereotypes) and one major casting error.  Jean Lefebvre is a sympathetic actor who works well in a supporting role along side “bigger” actors - such as Louis de Funès in the Gendarme series.  Unfortunately, he has neither the charisma nor acting talent to carry a film such as this.  His portrayal of a village idiot is not just unconvincing; it's unpardonably two-dimensional.  His co-stars aren't much better either, although the script is largely to blame.  Only two actors look as if they are interested in what they are doing and take the thing seriously: Robert Dalban and Bernard Blier.  It's a pity that the film is so beautifully shot and has a nice Jacques Brel number; it really doesn't deserve it.

Film Synopsis

Goubi, the popular idiot of a small rural town in central France, has only two dreams: to marry the mayor's daughter Berthe and to visit Paris.  He may not stand much chance of getting the girl he wants, but he does get to see his favourite city, thanks to a prank played on him by a pair of market gardeners.  On regaining consciousness after drinking himself senseless Goubi finds himself in the busy Halles market in Paris and, scarcely believing his good fortune, immediately sets out to explore the capital.  He accepts a lift from a good natured prostitute, La Fleur, and then strikes up a friendship with a meat wholesaler, Monsieur Dessertine, who like him was brought up in state care.  With Dessertine's help, Goubi finally manages to fulfil his dream of seeing the Eiffel Tower.  It is on the Champ-de-Mars that Goubi falls in with a louche student who gets him into trouble.  Arrested for causing a public nuisance, Goubi renews his acquaintance with La Fleur, who confides in him her dream of owning her own farm in the country.  Goubi knows just the place...