You know me and historical dramas, I love them. When I first saw this recently released historical drama, Mrs Harris Goes To Paris (2022), I attempted to deduce what the movie is about from the title. Many questions flooded my brain, one of which was —why Paris? I think this movie title supposes that the heroine had never been to Paris before, most likely because she couldn't afford to go at will and somehow she makes it to the City of Lights, a momentous highlight in her life's journey!
Well, if you think along this way as soon as you see the title, then you are almost correct. However, some plot twists will grip your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Synopsis
This heartwarming movie (set in 1957) focuses on a kind and modest London house cleaner who dares to dream and follows her dreams through to manifestation. Mrs Ada Harris (excellently played by Lesley Manville) is a war widow who looks forward to some news about her husband who is missing in action while working as a cleaner and sometimes as emotional support for her employers.
She receives a package containing her dead husband's effects and a letter relaying that he is dead, making her a widow. She shares this heartbreaking news with her close friend and moves on with her life. She's beloved in the community for her kindness and humility.
After sighting a beautiful Christian Dior gown in one of her employer's wardrobes, she falls in love with it. She begins to dream of buying a similar dress and wearing it. She saves up every bit of her earnings to buy a dress and this dream takes her on a trip to Paris after the war office paid the money that was due to her as a widow.
Journey to Paris
Arriving in Paris coincidentally when a Christian Dior fashion show is to take place, Mrs Harris is still her charming and kind self. She encounters obstacles at the show from the elegant but snobbish directrice and staff when they discover she's a commoner, giving preference to their wealthy clients.
Luckily for Mrs Harris, a handsome middle-aged man, Marquis de Chassagne (played by Lambert Wilson), comes to her rescue and invites her as his plus one. Mrs Harris is dazzled by the lovely dresses on display through the models and she makes her choice.
This choice requires her to stay in Paris for another two weeks so her dress can be sewn. Mrs Harris uses this time to explore the city and pursue her dreams. Do these dreams come to pass? I invite you to watch this charming movie and enjoy Mrs Harris' journey.
Review
At first, some viewers may find this movie not to their liking maybe because the main character is a middle-aged woman in a 1950s setting but I can guarantee that it's a breath of fresh air. The first few scenes may seem boring because the focus is on Mrs Harris' daily routine. But for a movie this good, it takes a little patience to savour and enjoy it.
There are light-hearted moments as well as funny ones that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This movie brings to the fore a tale of kindness triumphing over failure and negativity which is rampant in our world.
Based on a novel written by Paul Gallico, the storyline of Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is clever and good with great acting, excellent cast and cinematography. Viewers are enchanted with picturesque scenes from Paris and an informative look at how popular fashion houses like Christian Dior and others operated at that time.
Not Predictable
Yes, Paris is mostly about romance, fashion, food and wine, as such some viewers would expect that there would be a love story in this movie. I admire how Mrs Harris played Cupid by bringing two young couples together but the focus on them was not convincingly romantic.
Mrs Harris did have her sight set on Marquis de Chassagne, another dream she hoped to pursue. Though it did not happen, I liked how the director set out the anticipation that there was going to be something between the couple but it turned out not to be. Sometimes, life is like this —unpredictable.
Overall, this movie is relatable, overflowing with humanity, heart, passion and outstanding performance. I'll recommend it if you are in the mood for a quaint yet rare cinematic treat.
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