by Hudson Moura
In A Little Something Extra (Un p’tit truc en plus), director and comedian Artus brings a unique twist to the typical buddy comedy by setting the story in an unexpected environment—a colony of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The film follows two jewel thieves, a father-son duo, who hide out in this camp after a heist. Artus plays Sylvain, a con artist pretending to be one of the residents. In contrast, his father, played by the exceptional Clovis Cornillac, portrays Lucien, a hardened criminal with a hilariously unfitting nickname, “La Fraise.” The film quickly evokes memories of the classic comedic duo Pierre Richard and Gérard Depardieu in films such as La Chèvre, The ComDads, and The Fugitives, as the mismatched pair try to navigate their undercover scheme while keeping their identity a secret from the community.
What makes A Little Something Extra stand out is its mix of politically incorrect humour balanced with an undercurrent of emotional depth. While some may find the jokes about the residents’ condition controversial, it’s clear that Artus intends to walk a fine line between mockery and inclusion. The characters frequently use coarse language, which, in the context of their condition, is framed as a form of unfiltered honesty, adding an unexpected layer of humor. One of the most poignant scenes comes when Sylvain reflects on his strained relationship with his father, leaving the audience to wonder whether he’s referring to his character’s disability or the father-son dynamic between the real thieves.
The film’s structure fits neatly into the feel-good comedy genre, with its lighthearted tone, character redemption arcs, and an overall message of acceptance. Like many feel-good comedies, A Little Something Extra is not only about making the audience laugh but also offering a cathartic resolution where the characters grow, transform, and find happiness. While the film treads on delicate thematic ground, it ultimately delivers a heartwarming conclusion with enough humor to keep the audience entertained. As with any good comedy, the feel-good ending is sure to leave viewers with a smile, even if the film occasionally borders on problematic territory.
While it risks stepping into controversial waters, A Little Something Extra manages to deliver a feel-good ending that, although imperfect, is uplifting and satisfying, leaving viewers with both a smile and some food for thought. The film will be presented at Cinéfranco—Festival International du film francophone, from November 1 to 10, 2024, at the Carlton Cinema in Toronto.