French Girl 2024 Movie Review

Where many contemporary romantic comedies stumble lies in their laser focus on romance at the expense of comedy. However, “French Girl,” an indie film hitting theaters this weekend in Canada, sidesteps that issue entirely.

Featuring Zach Braff, Vanessa Hudgens, and Québécois actress Évelyne Brochu, this rom-com delivers laughs aplenty and oozes charm from start to finish.

Set against the backdrop of Quebec City, the film follows Gordon Kinski (played by the irresistibly charming Braff) and Sophie Tremblay (portrayed by the effortlessly chic Brochu) on a journey from Brooklyn to meet Sophie’s family in Canada.

Drawing comparisons to hits like “Meet the Parents” and “Notting Hill,” the plot revolves around Gordon’s attempt to propose to Sophie, only for her ex-girlfriend Ruby (played by the stunning Vanessa Hudgens) to throw a wrench in his plans by offering Sophie a job back in Quebec City.

As Gordon grapples with meeting Sophie’s Québécois family while fending off Ruby’s interference, the film weaves a tale of culture clashes and ensemble comedy.

Directed and written by James A. Woods and Nicolas Wright, “French Girl” is a passion project rooted in the directors’ personal experiences, adding depth to its sharp humor and editing.

Braff and Brochu’s chemistry is undeniable, anchoring the film in authenticity and elevating it above typical rom-com fare. Unlike many films in the genre, “French Girl” portrays Sophie as a multifaceted character, eschewing clichés for a more grounded depiction of romance.

While the supporting cast adds depth with their portrayal of Québécois family dynamics, the film’s true star is Quebec City itself. Shot on location, the city’s picturesque streets and landscapes serve as a stunning backdrop for the unfolding romance.

However, despite its strengths, “French Girl” falters in its handling of the antagonist, Ruby. While Hudgens delivers a compelling performance, the character’s motivations feel underdeveloped, diminishing the tension in the final act.

Nevertheless, “French Girl” leaves audiences eager for more, hinting at the possibility of a sequel and cementing its place among beloved rom-com classics.