FALSE CONFESSIONS by Carol Kaufman Segal

             False Confessions is a modernized film adaptation of the 18^th Century play be Pierre Marivaux and features Isabelle Huppert and Louis Garrel.  It was directed by Luc Bondy who, unfortunately, died in November, 2015, before the film was completed.  His wife, MarieLouise Bischofberger contributed to its finish.

             Dorante, once a wealthy accountant (Louis Garrel), is facing financial problems.  He pursues a position as a secretary to the wealthy widow, Araminte (Isabelle Huppert), a woman with whom he is infatuated.  He was told of the position by his former valet, Dubois (Yves Jacques).  Dorante also received help getting the position through Araminte’s lawyer who happened to be Dorante’s Uncle Remy (Bernard Verely). 

            Both men conspire on behalf of Dorante in the interest of love.  Dubois wants to match him with Araminte, while his uncle wants to match him with Araminte’s servant Marton (Manon Combes).  Yet another interloper, Araminte’s arrogant mother (Bulle Ogie), is trying to convince Araminte to marry a more prestigious count (Jean-Pierre Malo). 

            Despite the bumbling and the plotting by all of the characters that borders on the verge of slapstick, love wins out in the end.   The movie is beautifully filmed.  It is amusing, light-hearted, and perfectly cast.

           
            Playing at Lammle Royal in West Los Angeles

            In French with subtitles

            Running time:  86 minutes
            Not rated   

            Not rated