In the multi award-winning The Singer (aka When I Was a Singer, “Quand j’étais chanteur“) Gerard Depardieu returns to excellent form following a few mediocre roles where people were being to wonder how bettable he was at the box office. Giannoli’s direction brings out the best in Depardieu and the film is an engaging, reflective piece on relationships and compromise without a touch of cynicism.

Depardieu plays a middle-aged singer playing clubs, dancehalls and retirement homes. One night a young woman, played by Cecile De France, stands out among his usually forty-something audience. The singer falls in love with her. For him the relationship opens up possibilities in his life; for her choosing an older man would restrict her choices.

At 58 Depardieu retains his big physical, potentially edgy presence but delivers an understated, sensitive performance and notably sings all the songs himself. Cecile De France is a charming counterpart and both leads received major awards. Indeed some critics predict future films together following the screen chemistry in The Singer. If you like Gallic sentimentality (without mawkishness) and chansons, you’ll love this film.

“A lovely, if self-conscious, performance from Depardieu.” – Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian.

“One gets so used to Gerard Depardieu’s fine performances in film after film that one almost takes him for granted. Then comes along The Singer, in which he rattles your senses with a performance so simple and understated that you realize all over again what a profoundly brilliant and charismatic actor he is.” – Kirk Honeycutt, Hollywood Reporter.

“We get an understated and truthful depiction of two people searching for dignity and fulfilment amid their averagely broken lives. Depardieu excels as Alain, bringing a depth and humanity to the role.” – David Mattin, BBCi- films.