The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob
THE WILD... THE HILARIOUS... THE SCREWBALL... THE RIOTOUS
Overview
In this riot of frantic disguises and mistaken identities, Victor Pivert, a blustering, bigoted French factory owner, finds himself taken hostage by Slimane, an Arab rebel leader. The two dress up as rabbis as they try to elude not only assasins from Slimane's country, but also the police, who think Pivert is a murderer. Pivert ends up posing as Rabbi Jacob, a beloved figure who's returned to France for his first visit after 30 years in the United States. Adding to the confusion are Pivert's dentist-wife, who thinks her husband is leaving her for another woman, their daughter, who's about to get married, and a Parisian neighborhood filled with people eager to celebrate the return of Rabbi Jacob.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Released during the height of the French New Wave, The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob can be seen as a departure from more avant-garde cinema of the time, offering a lighthearted and accessible approach to storytelling.
- The film offers a unique blend of comedy and drama, creating an entertaining and thought-provoking experience.
- It showcases the acting prowess of Louis de Funès, known for his physical humor and comedic timing.
- The movie tackles themes such as identity, religion, and cultural clashes, which are still relevant today.
- The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob is a timeless tale that will appeal to both fans of comedy and those interested in deeper social commentary.
Fun Facts
- The film was based on a popular French novel titled 'Le Voyage de la vie' by André Frossard.
- Louis de Funès, who played the lead role, was initially hesitant about taking the part due to its religious subject matter but later agreed and delivered a memorable performance.
- The movie was a significant commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films of all time at the time of its release.