New Biz in the Hood

"New Biz in the Hood" (original title: "Jusqu'ici tout va bien") is a 2019 French drama directed by Mohamed Hamidi, starring Gilles Lellouche. The film follows Samia, a young woman who, after losing her father, teams up with a community center manager to try and save a struggling cultural hub in her disadvantaged neighborhood. Blending humor and heartfelt moments, the story explores themes of resilience, community solidarity, and the fight to preserve cultural identity against social and economic challenges. Through vibrant characters and engaging storytelling, the movie sheds light on the realities of urban life in France while delivering an optimistic message about hope and cooperation.

Critically, "New Biz in the Hood" received a mix of responses. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 5.9/10, indicating a divided audience reception. Some critics praised the film for its authentic portrayal of community struggles and the chemistry among the cast. For instance, reviewers appreciated Gilles Lellouche's charismatic performance which brought warmth and relatability to the film. However, others noted that the movie occasionally falls into predictable clichés and its pacing can feel uneven. French publication "Le Monde" highlighted the strong social message and engaging ensemble but mentioned that the narrative sometimes lacked depth. Rotten Tomatoes does not have enough reviews for a critic consensus, reflecting the film's modest exposure outside of France. Overall, "New Biz in the Hood" is recognized for its heartfelt intentions and social commentary, though some viewers found its execution less compelling.