The Suitor

1962 romantic comedy

Rating: 15/20

Plot: An astronomy enthusiast tries to find a woman to marry after his parents decide they want him to move out of the house.

More Pierre Etaix, a name I don't know how to pronounce. Etaix, it seems, isn't afraid to get a little absurd, and like his Yoyo and the great comedies of Keaton, Chaplin, and Lloyd from the silent era, this has plenty of inventive sight gags and lots of charm. And it reminds me a lot of Jerry Lewis which might help explain why the French loved that guy so much. This is Etaix's first film, and although it's a good first film and humorous, it's not as inventive as Yoyo. Then again, few movies are as inventive as Yoyo. The Suitor isn't a silent movie, but its star is nearly silent, and the whole thing's got that feel of a silent movie. Those of you who find that kind of humor dated or obsolete won't enjoy this at all, but I'm really going to feel sorry for you. The story hardly matters here, probably like most of the world's best comedies. Instead, this is all about rooting for a character even though you will guess correctly exactly how this movie ends and chuckling at the shenanigans.

I'd write more, but I know a better use for my time--watching more Pierre Etaix movies!