Passport Stamps: Les Chansons D'amour, un film de Christophe Honoré

I'm anxiously staring at my laptop, biting my finger nails and wondering how I could possibly write a fitting tribute to the genius that is Christophe Honoré. I honestly can't because sometimes words are not enough. His unique vision for storytelling sets him apart from anything else in french cinema. Although he is influenced by great French directors of the Nouvelle Vague movement like Jean Luc Godard, his emotionally-engrossing characters capture the beauty and gloom of modern France. His movies want you to authentically experience the human condition, not quantify it. Les Chansons D'amour is my favorite Christophe Honoré movie for a number of reasons. It is the most unexpected musical you will ever watch. Yes! you heard me right, a musical but not your average American musical. It is a deeply moving intelligent musical with songs that whistle like poetry. In fact, it is poetry, brilliantly written by composer Alex Beaupain. Also, the screenplay is impeccable and the arc of the story will shock you, in a beautiful way. Last but not least, the performances are, for lack of a better word, amazing.

"Je n'aime que toi" is performed by Louis Garrel, Ludivine Sagnier and Clotilde Hesme. The movie focuses on the roller-coaster relationship between these three lovers in Paris. Louis Garrel is a thinking leading man: intelligent, handsome, vulnerable and real. He pretty much puts all 20 something leading actors in Hollywood to shame; truly a tour-de-force performance. Ludivine and Clotilde are super talented and gorgeous.

"As tu deja aime" performed by Gregoire Leprince-Ringuet and Louis Garrel. I have to say, Gregoire gave one of the best performances in the movie. He really captured the naivety of youthful enthusiasm. It is also worthy to note that between 2004 and 2011, Gregoire has garnered an impressive four Cesar nominations for most promising actor. The Cesar awards are the French equivalent of the Oscars.

The cast performing songs from the movie at Divan du Monde. Isn't Clotilde super cute? I just want to hug her and kiss her adorable cheeks. I also love when she calls Louis "parfait diva." Ludivine's voice is divine, pun intended. They have amazing chemistry.

The composer Alex Beaupain performs "Je n'aime que toi" live with Louis and Clotilde

Gregoire and Louis peform "As tu deja aime" live.

"Au Parc" is my personal favorite; Chiara Mastroianni singing a melancholic and beautiful melody. What can I say man? these are talented actors who can act, sing and do it all. So do yourself a favor and watch Les Chansons D'amour. If you genuinely love movies, you won't regret it; a true cinematic experience. Below are photos of the cast at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival