Movie Review: La Buche

Story: Oooo la la! The French know how to do so many things well and this little gem of a film can be added to their list of accomplishments along with 'Impressionism' and croissants, to name just two. Screenwriter (Cousin, Cousine) and debut film director Daniele Thompson gives us a contemporary film that is short on the typical schmaltz of holiday fare and long on character development and story line. The film evolves over the four days before Christmas. We have three adult sisters, their divorced parents, various lovers and would-be lovers (it is French), complicated lives, family secrets and some revelations. There are some good laughs, a rich decor, a good look at exquisite Paris at Christmas time and lots and lots of style. You can say anything you want about the French (who hasn't)? but you must admit -- they do have style.

By the way - La Buche is a pastry that looks like a Yule log.

Acting: Lots of French people -- all beautiful and stylish -- all very good actors.

Pets: Alas, none in the major households (a big oversight). One sweet pooch in the park.

Visual Art: Rich decor with appropriate wall coverings.

Soundtrack: Very funny. Lots of Perry Como, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin Christmas stuff.

Titles: A beautiful introduction to Christmas shopping in Paris.

Theater Audience: We were in the balcony and made it right before the opening credits so I only saw the other five people in the balcony. They looked normal, just like us.

Quirky Meter: 3

Oscar Worthy: I doubt it.

Nit Picking: I have nothing to complain about.

Length: 106 minutes

LOBO HOWLS: 8