Reviews

For those that aren't familiar, Babar occupies a curious little niche in children's books, and is sometimes the first exposure children have to cursive writing. Long story short, Babar is a prince in an elephant kingdom, having all sorts of curious adventures. In this movie, Babar has been left to run the kingdom while Dad is on vacation - however, the rhinoceroses declare war on the elephant kingdom, and Babar has to decide whether to resolve the problem through peaceful or violent means (pretty heavy for a 4 year old). The highlight of the film is Babar inquiring of his advisors as to recommendations - said advisors then launch into an amusing song-and-dance number about bureaucratic (in)efficiency being the best solution - "We'll send it to committee for review!" Increasingly funny the older you are . . .

The comparison is perhaps unfair, but inevitable. Those attracted to the intimacy and depth of Umbrellas will be slightly horrified to discover a cut-and-paste musical in the American style - awkward, stilted dialogue with inexplicable song-and-dance numbers. Gene Kelly's French accent was apparently so poor, that a dreadful job of dubbing was substituted (as you'll remember, the dubbing was almost perfectly pulled off in Umbrellas). The translation of the French (for subtitled versions), as well, leaves something to be desired, although this can't be attributed to Demy. The film also has several self-aware moments that come off a wee disconcerting, such as references in songs to LeGrand himself. And the costumes - well, the tight pants/white boots combination, and the freakishly unnatural colors, reminds one of an Austin Powers film . . .

But Demy does reward the viewer with allusions to Umbrellas; note, for instance, the suitcase carried by Maxence in his departure from Rochefort - this is the same suitcase carried by Guy in his departure from Cherbourg. Also, note the "Convenient Brunette of Resolution" - Madeleine in Umbrellas, and Josette in Young Girls.

Generally speaking, those expecting the natural feel of Umbrellas (save the floating bicycle scene), or looking for similar deeper questions and ambiguous endings as in Umbrella's script, should probably pass this one b y. Those looking for a French version of a thin '60s American musical will be quite happy.