2 Days in Paris

REVIEW: With its fleeting timeframe, and crackling Rohmer-like dialog, French actress Julie Delpy's directorial debut 2 Days in Paris has drawn unavoidable comparisons to Before Sunset. Not unexpected since the latter film is also about a breezy stroll through Paris and contains one of Delpy's most memorable and cherished performances. So it's a real treat then that her unmistakable wit and intelligence is on full display again, in front of and behind the camera this time, even though we can't help but keep telling ourselves that it's not the third installment to Richard Linklater's masterful, romantic diptych.

A French photographer Marion and her American boyfriend Jack decide to take a trip to Paris. Their relationship is already a bit rocky when we first meet them. We sense they've made a lot of mutual compromises in order stay together. However, their stay in the city of love doesn't so much ease but add to their strain, as visitations from eccentric family members and past boyfriends hilariously show up everywhere they go.

With her Woody Allen style neuroticism -- that would be unbearably annoying if she weren't so cute and likeable -- Delpy's wiry persona keeps the picture from going too somber and overly earnest about itself. It's a fine and enjoyable debut, but nothing quite as sweetly memorable as -- hard not to mention it again -- her bittersweet fling with Ethan Hawke in that other Paris movie. It's a moderate recommendation, and also worth checking out for the odd and wacky father, played by Delpy's real-life dad... so now we know where she gets it.

Also Opening This Week:

Klimt
Moliere
Rush Hour 3
A Stone's Throw
Skinwalkers
Run Robot Run
Daddy Day Camp
Stardust

(Photo Courtesy: Seville Pictures)