Chanson d'Amour (The Singer, Quand j'etais chanteur)
France 2006

Opening 18 Jan 2007

Directed by: Xavier Giannoli
Writing credits: Xavier Giannoli
Principal actors: Gerard Depardieu, Cécile de France, Mathieu Amalric, Christine Citti, Patrick Pineau

Alain Moreau (Gérard Depardieu) is a middle-aged, overweight, worn-out ballroom singer in the provincial town of Clermont-Ferrand. His ex-wife Michéle (Christine Citti) is his business manager, who organizes everything so he need only focus on his performance...and periodic romantic affairs. Then he really falls in love with the tormented real-estate agent Marion (Cécile De France), half his age, who is also the love interest of a good client. The chemistry between them is noticed by the ex-wife, who makes one last plea then announces she will marry someone else. This comes at a time when Alain and Michele are trying some new musical venues, and the results are devastating. The very real atmosphere of the cocktail club and the wonderful performances make this simple classic story a terrific film. (Nancy Tilitz)