Qui perd gagne! (2004) - film review

For several years, Jacques and Angèle have formed the perfect couple, in spite of the fact that he is a professional gambler and she is an officer in police intelligence.  Both are intrigued by the story of a mathematics professor who claims to have discovered a formula for winning the French National Lottery.  When the professor wins the jackpot prize two weeks in succession, Angèle is convinced someone has contrived an elaborate fraud and sets out to uncover the truth.  It is, however, Jacques’ gambler’s instinct which provides the winning hand…

Despite its implausible plot and some uninspired direction, this drama mystery has some appeal – mainly on account of its stylish presentation and attractive lead actors.   Whilst Thierry Lhermitte and Elsa Zylberstein look a little bored with their roles and fail to engage the audience, Maurice Bénichou (a much finer class of actor) has no difficulty making his character – an eccentric mathematician – convincing and sympathetic.  The plot – convoluted and incredible as it is – just about sustains the film, although it is a plodding and generally anaemic affair, offering few laughs and even fewer surprises.

© James Travers 2007

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