I saw this nice feel good drama comedy French movie Cats and Dogs - showing the struggles of a recently divorced (50+ something) City-tour boat Captain Jean (Philippe Rebbot) who has to take care of his three children. On top of that he is evicted for non-payment of rent and he loses his job, his three little children are unhappy, his wife is threatening and seeks custody of all the children. Once custody happens he does not have a place to stay, and ends up with another unemployed struggling young musician friend Victor (Pablo Pauly).
The good part is that amidst all these Jean is so endearing, honest, helpful, vulnerable, patient, joyful, innocent, good natured, loving father, respectful in all conduct - that one feels that come what may - he accepts life as it comes amidst life's struggles contrary to what one expects from life.
Director Edward Deluc keeps the movie's tone light and frothy and does not let the movie be heavy and burdensome. As viewers our heart goes out for Jean and with all his difficulties we want him to be happy.
And that what happens - with a feel good happy ending where everyone is in harmony and joy with each other.
There are several sub-plots surrounding Jean interwoven nicely along with the main story.- Jean's office / job strifes, his drunkenness problem, affairs, marriage counseling, dropping children late at school every day, and a developing love story with his colleague Judith (Laure Calamy) who just adores Jean's positive and good nature - and finally wins him over with her LOVE..
The other sub-plot being of the young musician friend's Victor's struggles, love story, employment and both plotting a robbery and getting caught by police (is so funny).
The lasting memory remains of the main protagonist veteran actor Philippe Rebbot - who plays his age and with "whatever-life-offers-never-give-up-on-life" attitude
All other characters have played their small roles extremely well - especially the small portions of children watching their father's problems and struggles is very heartfelt and touching.
It seems that Phillipper Rebbot's earlier movie (L'amour flou) that he wrote and directed with his wife - had a very similar character sketch - which is carried forward here.
I enjoyed this family drama light hearted comedy movie about daily struggles of life.
I would go with 7 out of 10.
