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The title character Chéri, played by Rupert Friend, is the son of a rich, former courtesan played by Kathy Bates. Michelle Pfeiffer is Cheri's lover. She is much older than he - and I must say, Michelle still looks pretty darn good. He, on the other hand is a pretty effeminate "ladies man", even in his early 20's
Joyce: It begins with a voiceover somewhat explaining the background of courtesans of the day at that time in Paris. A number were quite famous, as was the aging Madame Peloux played by Bates. Pfeiffer plays a somewhat younger but still quite mature older woman.
Bates requests Pfeiffer's, who was godmother to Cheri, assistance in helping to reform Cheri's wanton and decadent behavior. But to Bates surprise, the two instead become long term lovers.
Rico: What they all see in each other is a challenge to your imagination.
The costumes and sets are all very pretty. I understand that Stephen Frears, the director, first thought of the costumes and then subsequently cast the film.
Kind of a strange way to go about it.
Joyce: For me they were both extremely alluring and very romantic. They lived in opulent luxury. Their lives appear to me to be very shallow but seemingly very satisfying. The costumes and sets were not just pretty they were splendid.
Rico: I don't think it approaches the level of some of his previous films such as: The Queen, Dangerous Liasons, Mrs. Henderson Presents, Dirty Pretty Little Things, The Grifter and The Snapper.
Joyce: I certainly agree with that. Frears other films seemed to have much more substance and were notable. This one is gorgeous to look at and romantic and eventually quite sad but doesn't compare to his others.
Rico: It is a pretty film, Pfeiffer looks great, and I suppose that's enough for Frears' fans. It's a snapshot of the decadence of Paris just before the first World War.
Joyce: Pfeiffer and Bates faux British accents really suffer from being contrasted to an authentic Brit. And surely no one believes Bates ever was the most celebrated courtesan of her day, not to mention a member of the Paris ballet.
Rico: But they're supposed to be French!
I give it ***
It's rated R for some sexual content and brief drug use.
Joyce: I give it *** but only because it is so incredibly beautiful visually.
FILM: Chéri
DIRECTOR: Stephen Frears
CAST INCLUDES: Michelle Pfeiffer, Kathy Bates, Rupert Friend
RATED: R
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