Médecin de campagne (Irreplaceable)
25/02/18 Filed in: Amazon Prime
Another gentle French film that takes us into rural France were the local doctor, Jean-Pierre Werner, keeps the inhabitants healthy through a combination of years of experience and a very pragmatic approach. Once again the English title goes for simplicity, focusing on his 'irreplaceability' rather than his doctoring. But the need to replace him is a factor in the film, because at the beginning we see him diagnosed with a brain tumour, and being told that he must slow down. But, he's not that sort of man, and he continues with his work, which is clearly very important to him.
His consultant at the hospital, obviously conscious of Jean-Pierre's stubbornness, arranges for another doctor to help him, Nathalie Delezia, who Jean-Pierre mistakes as a patient when she arrives late in the day at his surgery. One can see that he initially resents her presence, being somewhat picky when overseeing her dealings with patients. But she isn't easily upset, and gradually eases her way into the practice. Initial concerns from some of the patients, who have become dependant on 'Dr Werner', gives way to acceptance and in time she becomes the doctor of choice for some of them. She is, however, unaware of Jean-Pierre's illness.
The film almost has a documentary feel to it as we follow the life of this country doctor. When visiting an old patient who is clearly in decline, Nathalie is convinced that he should be admitted to hospital, but Jean-Pierre is equally adamant that at his age, the best place for him is at home, with his dog. However, later in the story, when Jean-Pierre is away receiving treatment, Nathalie arranges for this elderly patient to be admitted. Jean-Pierre is very angry, and this sends their gradually warming relationship somewhat into reverse. However, shortly after, Jean-Pierre is called to an emergency where the mayor has had a serious accident, and has arterial bleeding from his leg. He calls Nathalie for assistance, and between them, in horrendous weather, they undoubtably save the mayor's life. Jean-Paul fell when making his way across the hazardous farmyard, injuring his ankle and collar bone. Nathalie X-rays the injuries, and while nothing is broken, she sees spots on Jean-Paul's lung. She says nothing, but later checks with the consultant at the hospital, who confirms Jean-Pierre's illness.
I was expecting a romantic connection between Jean-Pierre and Nathalie, but it didn't materialise. There was a moment when Nathalie was developing the X-rays, and Jean-Paul put his hand on her shoulder in what seemed an affectionate manner. And there were many 'looks' between them that could be read as romantic. And Jean-Pierre's son seemed to hint at a relationship when they were at a Western gala (i.e., cowboy hats and barn dancing).
Jean-Pierre had earlier declined radiation treatment, but during what appeared to be a philosophical reappraisal of his life, he changes his mind. So, does it work, will he need to be replaced, and will the subdued feelings between him and Nathalie develop into something meaningful?
Another enjoyable film for me, with Jean-Pierre played by François Cluzet, who you may have seen in that wonderful film Intouchables. Nathalie is played by Marianne Denicourt, who bestows the role with charm and beauty.
I was expecting a romantic connection between Jean-Pierre and Nathalie, but it didn't materialise. There was a moment when Nathalie was developing the X-rays, and Jean-Paul put his hand on her shoulder in what seemed an affectionate manner. And there were many 'looks' between them that could be read as romantic. And Jean-Pierre's son seemed to hint at a relationship when they were at a Western gala (i.e., cowboy hats and barn dancing).
Jean-Pierre had earlier declined radiation treatment, but during what appeared to be a philosophical reappraisal of his life, he changes his mind. So, does it work, will he need to be replaced, and will the subdued feelings between him and Nathalie develop into something meaningful?
Another enjoyable film for me, with Jean-Pierre played by François Cluzet, who you may have seen in that wonderful film Intouchables. Nathalie is played by Marianne Denicourt, who bestows the role with charm and beauty.