What's in a Name
Directed by Matthieu Delaporte, Alexandre de La Patellière
- comedy
The story
Vincent, a wealthy real estate agent, is invited to dinner by his sister Elizabeth and her husband Peter, both professors in Paris. Claude, a childhood friend and trombonist in a symphony orchestra, is also present. Vincent brings news from the prenatal examination of his and his wife Anna's unborn son. The name chosen by the soon-to-be parents strongly offends the others for many reasons. The dispute between the guests quickly escalates and before long the resurgence of old grudges and hidden secrets is unavoidable...
What it’s like
Set almost entirely in one bourgeois Paris apartment, this is a film of tight, theatrical framing: a dinner table, a few doorways, the warm amber of lamps against cream walls, and the camera staying close as faces tighten and drinks empty. The look is clean and unfussy, with little camera movement and no visual flourish, so attention settles on the performers and the rhythm of their talk. Sound is conversational and mostly unscored, with occasional classical music gesturing at the trombonist guest's world. Its vibe is brisk, sharp-tongued and warmly accusatory, a comedy of manners that turns a single dinner into a slow pile-up of grievances. It suits a lively evening with friends, a comfort watch on a cold night, or something to fill ninety minutes without asking much emotionally. Intensity is low: sharp words and sustained bickering, no violence, no gore, and no sexual content on screen. The pacing is quick and escalating, building through jokes and confrontations toward a finale of exposed secrets. It is for people who enjoy talky ensemble comedies and the pleasure of watching old friends and family unravel in a well-appointed room.
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