The film is based on the novel "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery.It can be defined as a drama with elements of fun.The movie is set in a luxurious apartment block in the heart of Paris.The story is narrated by Paloma, a brilliant 11-year-old girl, who plans to commit suicide on her 12th birthday.This decision is due to her disappointment and despair in adulthood.Her family doesn't understand her and they want to send her for psychotherapy.Paloma starts hanging around with the building's concierge, one of the few people she respects and can identify with.The concierge,called Renée, describes herself as old and ugly, dressed in a dowdy fashion.She seems to be a television-addict and an uneducated spinster.Unexpectedly, Renée is, in fact, a cultured self-taught woman who loves art,philosophy,music,literature and Japanese culture.In her humble ground floor flat, she has plenty of books, including philosophical treatises and masterpieces of Russian literature.Then she begins to form a romantic relationship with one of the building's new tenants.The ending is really surprising.
Ten film was a bit slow.However, it was quite thought-provoking.It deals with different themes, like death,suicide,the importance of appearances, the shallowness and arrogance of the upper class.In addition, the acting was excellent.I thoroughly recommend this touching, tender and gentle film.It's worth seeing!
Review of The Hedgehog
