Cousin, cousine (1975)
Directed by Jean-Charles Tacchella

Film Review

This lightweight romantic comedy was a surprising success in America, and was nominated for three Oscars, including - astonishingly - best film (although it actually won none).  The film does have some entertaining aspects (most notably Guy Marchand's endearing comedy), and Marie-Christine Barrault's performance is also quite pleasing.   However, it is overall rather a bland and formulaic affair, which goes nowhere near exploiting its full comic potential.  The film was honoured with an American remake, “Cousins”, in 1989.

Film Synopsis

Ludovic and Marthe, two cousins by marriage, meet at the most auspicious of occasions - their parents' wedding.  Although they are both already married, unhappily as it turns out, the cousins take pleasure in each other's company and decide to see each other after the wedding, seeking nothing more than mutual companionship.  The close bond of intimacy that develops between Ludovic and Marthe soon begins to arouse suspicion in the minds of their respective spouses, Karine and Pascal, who seriously doubt whether the friendship is, as its seems, a purely platonic one.  In the face of open hostility from their families, Ludovic and Marthe grow ever closer and finally decide to come clean about their relationship, which has now turned into a full-blown love affair.  Turning their back on their families, they begin living together, sharing a passionate romance that is more intense and life-affirming than they have ever known...