'The Intouchables' untouchably good

Philippe is fabulously rich and a quadriplegic. He needs care 24/7.

Driss just wants to get his unemployment benefits. Copping an attitude and a priceless collectible eggs, in a job interview he demands Philippe's people sign his papers so he can leave. He's obviously unqualified, but that merciless mercenary mentality gets him the gig.

From there two outstanding actors -- Omar Sy and Francois Cluzet -- and writers/directors Oliver Nakache and Eric Toledano break every feel-good movie rule on the planet.

And you won't care.

As individuals, both men are flawed. Philippe is insecure, angry and educated. Driss confused, conflicted and a criminal. Together they're a force. Each connects with the other like they have never connected with anyone. The friendship is fast and -- based on a true story -- unforgettable.

Side stories also feature interesting characters that connect the two men.

Sy and Cluzet give the two best male performances of the year. Cluzet will remind you of a young Dustin Hoffman in both looks and acting skill. You'll swear Cluzet really is a quadriplegic. He slips in just one scene. Sy matches him scene for scene. He's charismatic with a killer smile and an easy, natural delivery.

This subtitled French flick is -- to date -- the year's best movie. Start tossing adjectives. Uplifting. Inspiring. Heartwarming. You may even want to bring a hanky. Or two. The Intouchables is that good. And -- heavy sigh -- while I hate using what seems like cliche, all of the adjectives just listed.

Mr. Movie rating: 5 stars

Directors: Oliver Nakache and Eric Toledano

Stars: Omar Sy, Francois Cluzet

Rated PG-13 for mature themes, violence. It's playing at the Carmike 12, the Fairchild Cinemas 12 and at Walla Walla Grand Cinemas.

5 stars to 4 1/2 stars: Must see on the big screen

4 stars to 3 1/2 stars: Good film, see it if it's your type of movie.

3 stars to 2 1/2 stars: Wait until it comes out on DVD.

2 stars to 1 star: Don't bother.

0 stars: Speaks for itself.

This story was originally published August 9, 2012 at 11:52 PM with the headline "'The Intouchables' untouchably good."