"Cherished Companions" - A Heartfelt Celebration
The heartwarming film *The Intouchables*, released in 2011 and set to air on ARD's One channel on July 17th at 8:15 PM, is a testament to the power of friendship and the bridging of social and cultural divides. The movie, starring François Cluzet and Omar Sy, is based on a true story that unfolded between Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a wealthy French quadriplegic, and his caregiver Abdel Sellou, a French-Algerian man with an unconventional background.
Following a paragliding accident in 1993, Pozzo di Borgo found himself quadriplegic and in need of a caregiver. He hired Sellou, a Frenchman of Algerian descent who was fresh out of prison at the time. Their friendship, initially considered unconventional, formed the emotional core of the story, highlighting themes of trust, mutual respect, and the bridging of social and cultural divides.
Omar Sy, a newcomer at the time, captivated audiences with his infectious laughter and good humor in the role of Driss, the caregiver. His connection to his role was evident when the real Philippe Pozzo di Borgo passed away in 2023. Sy had previously expressed that Pozzo di Borgo had changed many lives by allowing his story to be told.
François Cluzet delivers an outstanding performance in the film, portraying Pozzo di Borgo with authenticity and sensitivity. The film's main characters, Philippe and Driss, have starkly different backgrounds. While Philippe is educated, wealthy, and quadriplegic, Driss is fresh out of prison, on welfare, and of dark skin.
The film was a phenomenon in France, becoming the most successful of 2011 with over 15 million viewers. It was also popular in Germany. Toledano and Nakache, the film's directors, playfully exploit contrasts and clichés without lapsing into ridicule, creating a film that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Sy has since become a top star, appearing in films like "Jurassic World", "The Killer", and the series "Lupin". He has expressed that it was a rare privilege to have known Pozzo di Borgo, whose life and friendship continue to inspire people around the globe. The film "The Intouchables" remains a poignant reminder of the transformative power of friendship and the importance of embracing differences.
Movies-and-TV viewers can experience the emotional journey of friendship in 'The Intouchables', airing on ARD's One channel on July 17th at 8:15 PM. This entertaining movie, set against a backdrop of cultural divides, stars Omar Sy and François Cluzet, showcasing a captivating portrayal of real-life events in the world of entertainment.
