Dry Cleaning

Synopsis

Dry Cleaning (Nettoyage à sec) is a compelling French drama released in 1997, directed by Anne Fontaine. Starring Miou-Miou, Charles Berling, and Stanislas Merhar, the story revolves around a seemingly ordinary married couple, Jean-Marie and Nicole Kunstler, who run a dry cleaning business in a small town. Their mundane life undergoes a dramatic transformation when they befriend a young, enigmatic cabaret duo, Loïc and Marylin. This new relationship disrupts their routine, leading them to confront hidden desires and moral dilemmas. As the couple explores the deeper complexities of their bond and the implications of their newfound acquaintances, they must navigate the blurred lines between passion, temptation, and loyalty. Not just a romantic drama, the film delves into themes of intimacy, societal norms, and the unpredictable nature of human connections, all set against the backdrop of routine suburban life.

Cast

• 

  Miou-Miou

  Nicole Kunstler

• 

  Charles Berling

  Jean-Marie Kunstler

• 

  Stanislas Merhar

  Loïc

• 

  Mathilde Seigner

  Marilyn

• Nanou Meister

  Yvette

• Noé Pflieger

  Pierre

Reviews

Dry Cleaning received a mix of positive and critical reviews from both audiences and critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film enjoys an 80% rating, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics have praised the film for its nuanced storytelling and the strong performances of its lead actors. According to Metacritic, the film holds a respectable score, reflecting a balanced mix of critical acclaim and some reservations from more discerning viewers. Janet Maslin of The New York Times lauded it as 'a hauntingly atmospheric drama that captures the unpredictable complexities of human relationships,' highlighting Miou-Miou’s 'mesmerizingly authentic performance.' On the other hand, some reviewers found the pacing to be on the slower side. The Guardian gave the film a modest review, pointing out that while the 'performances are stellar,' the narrative 'meanders at times and lacks a conclusive punch.' Critics on IMDb have rated it 6.8/10, acknowledging the film's artistic merit while noting that 'its subtlety might not appeal to viewers looking for a more straightforward plot.' Overall, Dry Cleaning is appreciated for its atmospheric depth and character-driven plot, making it a thought-provoking watch.

See also

Inception

Avatar

Deadpool

Joker