Adventures of Félix (2001)

It's funny watching the elements come together in this complicated scam. On one hand, the set-up isn't quite as complex as it seems, but there's an easy sense of fun in every exchange.

If the ambition is to provide two hours of instantly forgettable, popcorn-munching escapism, it succeeds.

I cannot think of one single thing that I would change about this film. The acting is incomparable, the directing deft, and the writing poignantly brilliant.

it is finally so absorbing because it plays like a lyrical road odyssey that’s also a detective story.

Offbeat but thoroughly digestible film that counters my usual take on French cinema as being dolorous and tedious. To be sure, such happiness is found in some rather amoral settings and activities; but close examination controverts even the most uptight opinions found among these reviews.It is indeed a "road" movie -- one of the best I have seen in terms of either its execution or its premises. Every common version of the genre is confounded, however, by unexpected surprises along the way. You cannot stop watching until the end. That is the mark of excellence in my book. Imagine -- just imagine -- how great it would be to reach the point at which Hollywood could conjure this kind of universal "family" film. Nah. It will never happen.

This is a charming film, very believable, just the way it could happen. Felix may be HIV+, but that is not exactly the issue here (he practices very safe sex). It's just a young man's odessy to find his biological father. Don't worry, it's a five-day trip. And, he interacts with some very interesting people. Very French. Very European in its conceit. I am 59 and if I were twenty-something again, I might try, like Felix, to find my biological father in much the same way. I would hope I could meet a "grand-mere" as delightful as Felix did. Felix is HIV+, but that is not the issue here -- it's more about a gay youngman's five-day odyssey. In the end, well, you will have enjoyed it all, but perhaps you won't know exactly why.

This light hearted travelogue managed to illuminate racism, HIV, aging, death, passion, commitment and fear with a gentle seductive light. It has less ideals than American films like it. Therefore, it seemed much more real, mostly. One big issue, homophobia, is treated most strangely as an anachronism. Felix makes out with his various men in public with fearless abandon, while he seems intensely aware of his Arab-ness. I can allow for the common American notion that Europeans are easier about public displays, but this aspect of the film did seem less real and more idealized. The French countryside is also portrayed in a very real way. Highways and power plants everywhere. Yet, the natural lighting and choice of shots conveyed the persisting charm of France. I was reminded of Eric Rohmer films, like "Autumn Tale". Sami Bouajila, as Felix, has camera chemistry and acts well. The supporting cast is evenly talented. I was thrilled to see Patachou, whom we haven't seen often enough here in the States. I think this film will be remembered as a very good movie with universal appeal, not a gay snapshot, like many of its American cousins.

Saw this film last night and just can't get over it. Ducastel and Martineau are the best thing to happen to French cinema in years. They have a wonderful way of treating Big Deal issues without any sense of heavy-handedness. As a result they've made a film about AIDS, racism, same-sexuality, and coming to grips with the ups and downs of life that's both optimistic and realistic. Sami Bouajila is a genuine find, and the great 50's era singing star Patachou gives an incredible performance as his "Grandmother." I'm still walking on air over this one.