By Hudson Moura
In its original title, the French comedy Open Season, or Chasse-Gardée, loses some of its playful wordplay in translation. The phrase “Chasse-Gardée” refers to hunting and carries a deeper meaning of protected territory—both literal and figurative in this film. It’s not just the hunting grounds that are fiercely guarded but also the tranquillity and traditions of a small village community. For a young Parisian couple who dream of a peaceful escape from the city, their rural retreat turns out to be much more than they bargained for.
The film is a lighthearted comedy, exploring the clash between city dwellers and their romanticized vision of country life and the village folk, steeped in tradition, often to the point of absurdity. What the couple believes to be a quaint house nestled near a peaceful forest quickly reveals itself right in the middle of a hunting ground—something the local community zealously protects. This sets the stage for a series of humorous confrontations as the couple navigates their naive expectations of rural life against the stark realities of small-town culture and its eccentricities.
With themes of family, friendship, and values at its core, the film touches on various aspects of life in a humorous yet gentle manner. While the plot doesn’t offer many surprises, it promises a feel-good, family-friendly experience where the audience is guaranteed to leave with a smile. Absurdities and clichés abound, but they are delivered with charm and wit, making for a pleasant, if predictable, watch.
The film’s strength lies in its cast, which brings together some of the most beloved comedians in French cinema, including Didier Bourdon, Thierry Lhermitte, Camille Lou, and Hakim Jemili. Directors Frédéric Forestier, known for his previous comedies Dead Weight, Mon Poussin, and Asterix at the Olympic Games, and newcomer Antonin Fourlon, who also penned the screenplay, deliver an enjoyable film with a solid, though not particularly memorable, ensemble.
Though Open Season may not leave a lasting mark on French cinema, its charming performances and light humor offer a family audience an enjoyable and easy-going experience. It might not stick with you for long, but it’s the kind of feel-good film that provides just the right blend of fun and relaxation. After all, sometimes the “chasse gardée” we need isn’t protection from hunters but a break from life’s stresses—served with absurdity and laughter.
The film will be presented at Cinéfranco—Festival International du film francophone, from November 1 to 10, 2024, at the Carlton Cinema in Toronto.