The French Connection

I always see French movies. I don't know why, because I don't really like French movies. But every time there is a new one out, I feel this urgent need to see it. Maybe this will be the one French movie I really enjoy?

I went to Paris once when I was a teenager. I was so excited to go there and to be able to use my brilliant French skills. I couldn't wait to stroll down the Champs-Élysées and feel that I belonged in this magical city of lights.

I was convinced I knew the language fluently after studying it in high school for a couple of years. I realized at the Charles de Gaulle airport that I didn't know French at all. I couldn't figure out what the customs officer asked me. He was not impressed with me in the least. It was my first taste of Paris and it wasn't a friendly one.

My weekend in Paris didn't turn out exactly like I had envisioned, but I was immediately enamoured with this unique and beautiful cosmopolitan city. I didn't feel I belonged, but I was mystified with it all...the sights, the sounds, the language, the people.

Maybe the need to keep seeing French movies comes from this experience? maybe I think that one day...I will understand every single word that is being spoken, I will get the special sense of humour and I will understand the hidden and mysterious meaning behind the movies. So far, I don't get it, but I have never been known as someone who gives up easily.

The last French movie I saw was called "The father of my children". As per usual, I was getting frustrated and bored with the endless talking, the slow moving plot, the collection of useless scenes. I had almost fallen asleep by the time something very unexpected happened in the movie. The turn of events in the movie didn't make sense to me at all.

I left the movie just as bewildered as always, promising myself that I will never see another French movie. But I know I will, it's just a matter of time. The French connection is a persistent one.