Movie Review: The Grocer’s Son

Alternate Title: Van Go

Story: Antoine, the sullen, semi-estranged grocer’s son is called home from the City to take care of the family grocery store and food van delivery service when his father suffers a heart attack. How Antoine finally grows up and learns how to smile is at the heart of this slow moving, quiet summer film.

Affectionately directed by Eric Guirado and written by Guirado and Florence Vignon we meet an odd assortment of people who live in the present day but seem to be a throwback to a slower, simpler time.

The slow pace of the film helps to set up his realistic change of heart and attitude. As the film draws to a close the story lines are complete and there is a warmth in your heart.

Watch the trailer here. It is pretty funny. You will see a French film with Japanese(?) subtitles.

Acting: Nicolas Casale (think a young, puffier Alain Delon) was terrific as the rough around the edges grocer’s son. Clothilde Hesme was lovely as the love interest. The rest of the supporting cast, including many of the local elderly Provencal folks were great.

Predilection: None

Critters: Hens, kittens and a dog.

Food: What else? It is a French film about a grocer, so for sure so there is food. Eggs, tomatoes, tins of peas, flambe’d dishes, peaches, apples, etc. etc. etc.

Sex Spectrum: A roll in the hay. Fuzzy in the details.

Blatant Product Placement: Perrier

Soundtrack: Sweet and bucolic.

Visual Art: The hills of Provence looked like many an Impressionist painting. Yummy for the eyes.

Theater Audience: About 30 other people on a Sunday afternoon at Cinema Village.

Weather: Provence in the summer is perfect.

Sappy Factor: 0

Quirky Meter: 0

Squirm Scale: 0

Drift Factor: I looked at my watch a few times during the middle.

Predictability Level: High

Tissue Usage: 0

Oscar Worthy: No

Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be fine.

Length: Under two hours.

LOBO HOWLS: 7