French Fried Vacation 2

French Fried Vacation 2, directed by Patrice Leconte in 1979, remains an indisputable masterpiece of French comedy. This remarkable sequel to "Les Bronzés" confirms the virtuosity of the Splendid troupe and Leconte in creating memorable comedy.

One of the film's strengths lies in the successful continuity of its characters. The Splendid cast - Gigi, Bernard, Jérôme, Nathalie, Popeye, Christiane and Jean-Claude Dusse - maintain the humorous alchemy that made the first opus such a success. Each actor delivers a consistent performance, contributing to the immortalization of these iconic characters.

The film's script, finely crafted by the cast, is a demonstration of the comic richness that characterizes French Fried Vacation 2. From memorable visual gags, such as the pig scene in the doctor's office, to chiseled, unforgettable lines, the film excels in creating a comedy that is both sophisticated and accessible.

The impeccable acting is another aspect that sets the film apart. Each member of the cast invests his or her character with comic truth, contributing to the construction of endearing archetypes. Thierry Lhermitte as an infatuated seducer, Christian Clavier as an incompetent doctor, and Josiane Balasko as a quirky bellef demonstrate the versatility of the cast.

While the film's incisive humor shines through, the second half is less dynamic. The mountain hike, though full of gags, drags on excessively, suggesting an unexploited attempt at cannibalism. 

The subsequent reappraisal of Le Splendid's work by audiences, despite initial criticism, underlines the evolution of popular comedy. The discrepancy between the critical gaze of the time and popular success highlights the film's ability to transcend immediate assessments to become a timeless classic.

The influence of television on French cinema underlines the need for popular comedy to adapt to the demands of the small screen. The financial compromises induced by this adaptation are suggested as factors that potentially shaped the film's artistic direction, although this influence does not tarnish its intrinsic quality.

The internal tensions within the cast, notably Michel Blanc's refusal to participate in the writing, reveal the complexities of artistic creation in the face of financial imperatives. This internal struggle is not only a testament to the challenges inherent in film production, but also demonstrates the group's ability to maintain its artistic integrity despite external pressures.

French Fried Vacation 2 remains a staple of French comedy, combining humor, intelligence and a subtle exploration of the social dynamics of the time. With its successful continuity, memorable humor and outstanding performances, the film has solidified its place as a pillar of French film culture. Its enduring resonance underscores its relevance beyond its era, making it a must-see for comedy fans both in France and beyond its borders.

French Fried Vacation 2
Directed by Patrice Leconte
Produced by Yves Rousset-Rouard
Written by Patrice Leconte, Gérard Jugnot, Thierry Lhermitte, Christian Clavier, Josiane Balasko, Bruno Moynot, Marie-Anne Chazel, Michel Blanc
Starring Josiane Balasko, Michel Blanc, Marie-Anne Chazel, Christian Clavier, Gérard Jugnot, Thierry Lhermitte, Dominique Lavanant
Music by Pierre Bachelet
Cinematography : Jean-François Robin
Edited by Noëlle Boisson
Production companies : Trinacra Films
Distributed by Tamassa Distribution
Release date : 22 November 1979 (France)
Running time : 83 minutes

reviewed on December 20, 2023

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